At some point in an attorney–client relationship, the attorney will hold funds for his or her clients. Generally, these funds come in the form of a retainer, monies collected from a legal settlement or funds collected when an attorney acts [...]
The term "distributions" refers to money withdrawn from a retirement plan. Generally, traditional IRA and 401(k) account holders are eligible to take penalty-free distributions at age 59 1/2, but the IRS doesn't require distributions until you turn 70 1/2. [...]
With the new tax laws and the market doing especially well the past couple of years, donating appreciated investments provides a great way to support a cause close to your hearts with the bonus of some nice tax advantages. A [...]
The sooner you plan, the more prepared you'll be for life's unexpected twists and turns. You can start now, regardless of your net worth. You might still be paying off student loans or credit cards for the foreseeable future. Surprisingly, [...]
A last will and testament provides instructions for the distribution of your estate. It probably comes as no surprise that more than 70 percent of Americans don't have one. Most people aren't eager to draft legal documents, and there's [...]
Saving for your child’s education is no small feat. Although it is ideal to begin a savings program when your children are born, some families don’t start saving until their children are older. One of the best options is [...]
No one likes to think about estate planning, but it's important for even young adults to have their affairs in order, especially if they have family or loved ones. As the old saying goes, "hope for the best, prepare [...]
A trust is a legal entity that holds assets — money, property, stocks, bonds, insurance policies or artwork — for the benefit of another. Trusts help you accomplish your estate planning goals; their power lies in their versatility. A [...]
Many couples would rather talk about sex expectations than financial expectations and arrangements. And that’s unfortunate, because studies show that money issues are the number one stresser in marriages. And when stepchildren are involved, money stress can become even [...]
As your family grows, your estate matures and your assets become more substantial, it’s probably time to start thinking about an estate and trust plan. Estate and trust planning is a crucial step for those looking to ensure that [...]
