Two Words Could Undo Your Entire Estate Plan

Benjamin LongBeneficiaries, Estate Planning, Inheritance

The Importance of Accurate Estate Planning“’Per stirpes’ vs. ‘per capita.’ Making the wrong choice could cause an estate planning disaster.” No one relishes the idea …

What Are Typical Estate Planning Documents?

Benjamin LongEstate Planning Attorney, Power of Attorney, Trusts, Wills

Essential Estate Planning Documents Overview“If you want loved ones to remember you fondly, tackle your estate planning tasks. Your heirs will thank you for not …

There Are Rules for Social Security When Someone Dies

Benjamin LongSocial Security, Survivor Benefits

The Importance of Reporting a Death to Social Security “When a loved one passes away, there are usually various arrangements that need to be made. …

Should You Add Someone to Your Bank Account?

Benjamin LongBeneficiaries, Power of Attorney

“I know of someone who was joint account holder with his dad for many years, then later his dad then appointed him as power of …

Can I Be Sure My Estate Plan Works?

Benjamin LongEstate Planning, Estate Planning Attorney, Executor, Trusts

Avoiding Common Estate Planning Mistakes“Your estate plan is much more likely to be successful, when you recognize and avoid the most common mistakes and take …

Planning Future for Nontraditional Families

Benjamin LongBlended Family, Prenuptial Agreements, Step Children

Introduction “Some people are concerned that the new conservative 6-3 majority on the Supreme Court will roll back protections for non-traditional families. Regardless of the …

Making the Most of Exemptions and Flexibility in Gifting

Benjamin LongTrusts

Introduction to Gift Planning with Flexibility “Federal estate, gift and GST tax exemptions are currently at historic highs ($11.58 million per individual in 2020). These …

How Does Guardianship Work?

Benjamin LongGuardians, Power of Attorney, Special Needs

Understanding Guardianship for Incapacitated Individuals “As a result of illness, old age or incapacity, what may happen when you can no longer handle your own …

Consider Funding a Trust With Life Insurance

Benjamin LongAssets, Exemption

Understanding the Role of Life Insurance in Trust Funding “Estate planning is all about ensuring that your wishes are met after your death. All estate …

Do I Have To Pay Taxes During Retirement?

Benjamin LongBenefits, Estate Tax, Income Tax, Retirement

Understanding Taxes During Retirement “Some retirees may be surprised to learn that a portion of their Social Security benefits could be subject to federal income …