Social Security
Early Social Security Means a Smaller Check
Bad news in the media can spark people to take Social Security before it is gone. Claiming Social Security benefits early means a smaller monthly and lifetime benefit for you…
Deep in thought
Don’t Avoid a Conversation about Growing Older
The talk may be difficult but may turn out to be necessary. When someone dies or becomes disabled, the people who support and love that person are often in the…
Thinking of Your Retirement? Consider Some Top Regrets
Retirement expectations don’t always line up with reality. Are you picturing your retirement? Without careful planning, those years might not live up to your plans, according to The Washington Post…
Retirement Nest Eggs
Don’t Let an Inherited IRA End Up Being Handled Poorly
The IRA may be liquidated quickly. An inherited IRA can provide a lot of security. However, it can also become a problem, if it is not handled correctly, according to…
Hitting the jackpot
Unexpected Fortune? What’s Your Next Step?
Would you be generous? If yes, you’d be siding with the majority. I had a friend who won several million dollars in the Lottery. Yes, he did go to work when…
Signing legal documents
Power of Attorney a Permanent Decision?
The position of POA can be revoked. It would be wise for everyone to have thought things through carefully and chosen a Power of Attorney (POA). It is important to…
Signing matters
What Happens if I die without a will?
Estate problems can sometimes lead to a fractured family. We speak to many people who believe that if they die without a will, everything goes to the State. This is…
Judge on Bench
Is a Guardianship or Conservatorship needed? Take a Look at All the Options
Some of the options are less intrusive than a guardianship or a conservatorship. Sometimes guardianships and conservatorships are necessary when some members of a family believe a loved one is…
Twilight of Capacity
The Twilight of Competency for a Parent?
The path from competent to incompetent can be slow and difficult to analyze. Some of the most difficult calls we handle involve the question of when a parent can still…
Checklist
Why Reviewing Your Estate Plan in January Makes Good Sense
Put away the estate plan when it is completed. However, take a good look at it frequently. There are many reasons why an estate plan needs changing, because your life…