Will
Estate Planning Lessons from Tony Soprano
The tragic and untimely death of James Gandolfini shocked and saddened fans of the talented actor. And, since his will became public last month, there has been much commentary on the state of his affairs prior to his passing. The actor’s will exposes common estate planning problems that can easily occur with blended families. Gandolfini…
Read More"We are Family": Estate Planning for Adult Children Living at Home
With the state of the economy, the low unemployment rate for graduates, and the general cost of living, many children are continuing to live with their parents long after they turn eighteen. Having an adult child live with you can simultaneously be a benefit and a burden. Children at home can assist with the tasks…
Read MoreEstate Planning for Young Adults
Turning eighteen is a milestone for many reasons. You are legally an adult, with the ability to vote, and you may be heading off to college or starting a career. The future is upon you, the world is your oyster, and any other number of clichés. Regardless of where you are headed, it is most likely…
Read MoreCelebrity Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid
In an interesting article, Fox Business delved into the “Monumental Estate Planning Blunders of 5 Celebrities.” The piece looks at estate planning mistakes made from some well-known, now-deceased stars who’s estate ended up out of their hands. Leona Helmsley, widow of real estate tycoon Harry Helmsely, famously left a $12 million dollar trust to her dog, Trouble. Ultimately, this only served to cause trouble…
Read MoreEstate Planning and Second Marriages
If you are thinking about remarriage after a divorce, there is much to consider. Second marriages have become far more common in recent years, as divorce rates and life expectancy both increase. While pursuing a life with someone you love is an exciting endeavor, especially after the initial devastation that a divorce can cause, there…
Read MoreEstate Planning Lessons from Downton Abbey
A recent article from The Wall Street Journal offered “Money Lessons from Downton Abbey.” The popular British drama that takes place in the early 20th century recently ended its third season, but more important than providing entertainment, it can apparently offer valuable estate planning advice. While it is a period drama and work of fiction,…
Read MoreWriting Your Social Media #Will
While writing your will you may think about who will inherit your home, drive your car, or care for your pets. You may even worry about who will bear the burden of your debt. With so many things to concern yourself with you may not give a second thought to the afterlife of your social…
Read MoreDisinheriting Someone Isn't Always Easy
The desire to disinherit someone from a will isn’t always as negative as it sounds. While most times individuals are disinherited out of anger or pride, it isn’t unheard of to desire one person to receive more or less of an estate due to financial and personal need. However, there are certain rules and guidelines to take into consideration…
Read MoreDon’t Leave Your Legacy to Chance: Estate Planning For Lottery Winners
It seems pulled from the pages of a mystery story, but you may have heard it in the headlines recently. What happens if you win the lottery but die mysteriously shortly after? Urooj Khan may have gotten lucky when he hit the jackpot for $1 million in the Illinois Lottery, but shortly after things took…
Read MoreThe "Rules of Retirement"
Retirement accounts are not what many people expected they would be in light of the global recession. What’s in them isn’t the only factor to consider, however; it’s important to understand who is entitled to your assets. According to New York State CPA, Ed Slott, retirement accounts and 401ks are “surrounded by a complex labyrinth…
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