Losing a spouse is one of life’s greatest hardships. While financial matters may be the last thing on your mind, Florida offers a widow/widower homestead exemption that can help lighten your property tax burden during a difficult time. This exemption—available…
If you’re tempted to save money by using a do-it-yourself (DIY) will kit or an online template, a recent Florida court case might change your mind. It’s a sobering reminder that in estate planning, small mistakes can lead to big…
In the digital age, your estate is more than just financial accounts and property—it includes your online footprint and, in some cases, your genetic identity. That reality has come into sharp focus with the recent news that 23andMe has officially…
If you’re planning to leave a retirement account to your children—or you’ve recently inherited an IRA or 401(k)—a critical tax rule is now in effect that could impact your financial strategy. As of January 1, 2025, the final IRS rule…
When most people think about estate planning, they think about documents: wills, trusts, powers of attorney. They think about taxes, probate, and making sure their loved ones are taken care of financially. But there's another side to estate planning—one that…
Takeaways Family problems can become legal issues when a loved one needs end-of-life care or passes away, leaving an inheritance. A comprehensive estate plan can help your loved ones avoid family fights by addressing potential issues before they become legal…
Takeaways Americans are among the most generous people in the world, but trust in charities is declining amid concerns about transparency and accountability. Charitable remainder trusts (CRTs) allow donors to provide for themselves and their loved ones while supporting a…
Takeaways A new report finds that Americans overwhelmingly support preserving and strengthening Social Security benefits, even if it means paying more to address the program's long-term financing gap. At a time when the nation is deeply divided across political lines,…
Creating a Will or Trust is one of the most effective ways to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. However, even a carefully crafted estate plan can be contested under certain circumstances. At Estate Planning & Elder…
Estate planning is something many people put off, believing they have plenty of time to get their affairs in order. But what happens if you die without a Will in Florida? The answer might surprise you—and not in a good…