We were too young, we would have plenty of time when we are older, when life was slower, right? Or so we thought. I made a guess about my husband's health care desires and into surgery he went.
The perception is that trusts are for the very wealthy and that they cost a ton of money to set up. The reality is a trust can be a fantastic tool for the average person or couple, because it simplifies things in the event of your death.
Trusts are one of the most versatile items of the financial planning toolkit. However, they are not just for rich people. With the new higher estate tax exemptions, avoiding or reducing estate tax is not a concern for most of us.
After a period of divorce or widowhood, you, your newly beloved and your respective children are about to become a ‘blended family.’ You and you partner will be creating a new family dynamic, which will hopefully be rewarding, but can be fraught with challenges, if little attention is paid to the consequences of the relationships.
If you die without a will, it can lead to conflict between your surviving loved ones, as they try to figure out how best to divide up your personal belongings and finances.
The case of restaurateur and lifestyle guru B. Smith, who is battling Alzheimer’s, is drawing scrutiny from her fans and strangers alike, many of whom are dismayed by her husband’s decision to date a woman he calls his "life partner" and keep a room for her in the house he shares with Smith.
A power of attorney, or POA, is a document that enables an individual to appoint a person or organization to manage his or her affairs, should this individual become unable to do so.
After taking inventory of your possessions, including your home, vehicle, stocks, life insurance policies, etc., there are many steps you will need to take to protect these assets -- and yourself. There are many steps and documents that advisors will suggest you put into place immediately for your protection.