I am at the age where I am really beginning to realize how fragile life can be at times. Recently, we learned that former University of North Carolina basketball great, Eric Montross had lost his battle with cancer and died at the young age of 52.
Read MoreAs people age, they may find that living in a retirement community or continuing care community can offer them the support, care, and amenities they need to live a fulfilling life. However, choosing the right community and planning for life in such a community can be a complex process.
Read MoreWhen it comes to financial planning, one of the easiest and most important things to accomplish is an overall review of your estate plan. We suggest that you review your estate plan every couple of years or when there are changes in your family that may impact your estate planning. Here is a checklist of estate planning items to review that may be helpful.
Read MoreOn this episode of Finance In A Flash, we wrap up our series on Estate Planning by discussing common types of trusts. Chip and John briefly discuss several common types of trusts, their objectives, pros and cons, and tax and estate implications!
Read MoreOn this episode of Finance In A Flash, we continue our series on Estate Planning by discussing Revocable Living Trusts. Chip and John discuss key components of a Revocable Living Trust including: the primary purposes, how they are handled from a tax perspective, and other reasons to consider this estate planning tool!
Read MoreOn this episode of Finance In A Flash, we continue our series on Estate Planning by discussing Probate. Chip and John discuss what probate actually means, the assets included in the probate process, what assets are NOT included in the probate process, and so much more!
Read MoreOn this episode of Finance in a Flash, Chip and John kick off our series on Estate Planning. We discuss asset titling and the importance of understanding how different assets are titled!
Read MoreThrough hard work and sound financial planning, some find themselves in situations in which they are contemplating intra-family financial planning. That is, identifying financial planning techniques that can be used to financially strengthen the next generation—children and grandchildren.
Read MoreLet’s face it, in today’s world, managing your personal financial affairs can be complex. There are many decisions that need to be made on a weekly or even daily basis. For a large and growing segment of the population, who are trying to help aging parents with their finances, this can be incredibly frustrating, stressful and burdensome.
Read MoreThis article provides insight into a number of strategies and methods for making charitable gifts.
Read MoreParents with special needs children can face a unique set of financial challenges. However, like all financial challenges, it is important to take measures early to financially prepare for the future
Read MoreAn adequately planned and properly executed estate plan can ensure that your assets will pass directly to your intended heirs with the least amount of cost and hassle. Here are seven essential elements when establishing a sound estate plan:
Read MoreRoth IRAs are great savings mechanisms and can be used effectively for retirement and education planning. One of the less publicized advantages to Roth IRAs is that they can be a great estate planning technique when someone wants to pass along as much as possible to their heirs.
Read MoreMany financial planning objectives can be accomplished through the utilization of trusts. Here are several of the most common types of trusts and a brief overview of their purpose…
Read MoreMany people would prefer that their estates avoid the probate process. While the probate process is not overly costly in most states, it is generally considered a hassle to those who have experienced it. The following is a discussion on several alternatives for avoiding probate.
Read MoreIt is very important to periodically take the time to review your estate plan and make sure your existing documents are still appropriate and continue to meet your needs. This is a task that Beacon reminds clients to address about every other year. So what are those things that need to be reviewed?
Read MoreWhen a loved one passes away, the grief coupled with the burden of settling their estate can be overwhelming. Here are a few things you can do to make the estate settlement process easier for your heirs.
Read MoreMost parents take certain steps to protect their children in the event of their premature death. Drafting a will, designating a guardian, obtaining life insurance and naming appropriate beneficiary designations on IRAs and 401k plans are all important components of an effective estate plan. However, most parents should take additional measures to provide guidance on how their financial assets are managed for their children’s benefit.
Read MoreIn order to make your meeting with the estate planning attorney more efficient and productive, here are few items that you need to think about or decide on before your meeting.
Read MoreWe examine the changes that the SECURE act made on beneficiaries of retirement accounts. Beginning in 2020, the “stretch IRA” is eliminated for most beneficiaries. Also, we look at how trusts will be affected by the new tax law.
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