[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] It is not uncommon that family members, predominantly female family members, have provided a majority of care to their aging loved ones. Today, middle-aged adults, known as the “Sandwich Generation,” are those who are caught between the demands of caring for their children and providing care to their...
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] The internet makes information much more accessible than ever before, and with that accessibility, many people feel more comfortable attempting to do things themselves. It is easy to search engines to find Do-It-Yourself (“DIY”) guides and instructions for just about anything. However, many projects should be left to...
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] A traditional “nuclear family,” typically consists of a mother, father, and two children. However, what makes up a typical family structure in our society has shifted to a more complex structure, including step-children, cohabitation, same-sex couples, and blended family structures. While basic estate planning principles are similar for...
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] I was recently asked by a new client what I find to be the main thing couples struggle with when it comes to making, and agreeing on, estate planning decisions. It was an easy answer – naming who will be the guardian(s) of their children. Not only is...
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] It’s a New Year, and for many people that means a time to regroup and reset. It’s a time to reflect on finances, health, habits and goals – and to visualize what you would like to accomplish in the upcoming year. Most common New Year’s goals include improving...
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] It is common that an event or experience will cause someone to take steps to start their estate planning. In my experience, it is the expecting, or birth, of a baby that most often leads people into my office. It may seem that amidst buying baby clothes and...
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] Legally, pets are classified as property, but to owners, they mean much more than that. Pets are companions, best friends, and members of the family. For many people, pets are an integral part of the family. A pet gives unconditional love. But what happens to our pets when...
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Benjamin Franklin With this famous line written in 1789, Benjamin Franklin offered a friend some wisdom that has become one of his most-quoted quips. While some taxes are certain, Estate and Inheritance tax laws...
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] The idea of discussing your parent’s finances and estate planning can seem overwhelming and incredibly intimidating. After all, this is oftentimes the type of questions parents ask their children – not the other way around. However, as challenging as it can be to initiate this conversation, it is...
[column width=”1/1″ last=”true” title=”” title_type=”single” animation=”none” implicit=”true”] The manner in which you own shared property in Minnesota may impact your estate planning goals. It is important to know how your shared property is owned, and what that means in terms of what will happen with your interest should you die. Two common ways to own...