FAMILY PLANNING BLOG

​​Surveys conducted in 2024 by Caring.com and Ameriprise Financial revealed a troubling trend: Americans are falling behind on estate planning. The Caring.com survey revealed that only 32% of Americans have a will - a 6% decline from 2023. The Ameriprise survey found that 52% of couples lack estate plans. These statistics highlight a dangerous disconnect between understanding the importance of estate planning and taking action.

As we enter 2025, it's time to stop pushing those thoughts aside and take action to protect the people you love most. Many people avoid estate planning because they think it will be complicated, expensive, too time-consuming, or emotionally challenging. But the truth is, not having a plan, or having an out-of-date plan, is far more costly – financially, emotionally, and time-wise – for the people you love.

The incoming Trump administration promises significant changes that may impact your business in 2025 and beyond. From aggressive tariffs and immigration policies to tax cuts and deregulation, understanding what's ahead can help you position your business strategically.

When preparing for college expenses, understanding how financial aid and estate planning intersect can make a significant difference. This article will break down the essentials of how asset ownership influences aid eligibility, offer actionable strategies to increase the chances of receiving aid, and highlight estate planning tools that can protect your wealth while optimizing support for your child’s education.

The desire to make a difference doesn't end when we're gone. For many people, incorporating charitable giving into their estate plan provides a way to support causes they care about while creating a lasting legacy.

When it comes to planning for your family's future, the options can feel overwhelming. Should you get a will? Create a trust? And what happens if you do nothing at all? These aren't just academic questions - your choices today will impact your loved ones tomorrow.

Understanding how accounts are titled and who has access to them isn't just about convenience—it's about ensuring your assets transfer smoothly to your loved ones while protecting them from potential risks.

When legendary singer Tony Bennett passed away in July 2023, he left behind an estimated $100 million estate and, unfortunately, a family divide threatening to tarnish his legacy.

As Thanksgiving approaches, many families are busy planning menus, coordinating travel, and preparing for the big feast. While the turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie are important (and delicious) traditions, this cherished holiday offers something even more valuable—a perfect opportunity to think about, discuss, and preserve your family's legacy.