When David Bowie passed on January 10, 2016, at age 69, he left behind a well-structured estate plan. Estimated at around $100 million, his estate included carefully considered allocations, trusts, property bequests, and even instructions for his ashes. Bowie’s approach offers…
When Jerry Garcia—lead guitarist, cultural icon, and the spiritual force behind the Grateful Dead—passed away in August 1995, he left behind more than psychedelic solos and beloved albums. He also left behind an estate tangled in legal disputes, financial chaos,…
When the “Queen of Soul” passed away in 2018, the world mourned a voice like no other. But behind the scenes, Aretha Franklin’s family faced a years-long legal mess that could have been avoided with just one thing: a clear,…
Losing a spouse is a heartache no one is truly prepared for. Amid the emotional whirlwind, financial concerns often feel overwhelming. But here’s some relief you might not know about: Florida’s widow/widower homestead exemption. This program offers a meaningful way…
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…