Estate Planning

Estate planning in a blended family is not just about splitting assets; it’s also about managing loyalties. There’s no standard playbook when multiple households, histories and heirs converge. What you are really doing is protecting your spouse, your children and the...

With the rise of online resources and DIY estate planning kits, many individuals are considering taking estate planning into their own hands. However, is this a wise decision? Why do people consider a do-it-yourself approach to estate planning? DIY estate planning...

Throughout the aging process, it becomes harder for individuals to care for themselves. In many cases, the children or family members of an aging individual must establish a care plan that protects the safety and well-being of their loved one. An elder care plan will...

Creating an estate plan is the best way to protect your assets after you are gone and ensure your family has everything they need. Most people begin the process with a will or trust. What is a will? A will is a legal document that specifically lays out your plans for...

There are many options to consider when it is time to move a parent into a care facility. Finding the best fit takes time and is challenging if you do not know what to look for. Determine which facilities accept your parent's insurance or fit within their budget and...

When a person dies, the court supervises the distribution of assets and settlement of taxes and debts. This process, called probate, can be lengthy and expensive. These estate planning strategies can help your beneficiaries avoid the probate process in Michigan....

Choosing an executor for your estate represents one of the more important decisions in the estate planning process. The right person for this important and time-consuming role must have the patience, availability, willingness and financial savviness to perform the...

During the estate planning process, you will likely have concerns about how your assets will disburse. If you pass them on through your will, they must go through probate court before your beneficiaries can receive them. Due to the fees involved, probate can diminish...

If someone in your family has a disability, he or she may be incapable of working. Fortunately, government assistance programs may provide medical care, basic income or other support. Public programs do not usually offer much else, unfortunately. Special needs trusts...