You know that uneasy feeling when you think about what everyone you love would do, if (and when) something happens to you? That nagging voice reminding you that you still haven’t created a will or trust or updated the estate plan you do have? As we enter 2025, it’s time to stop pushing those thoughts […]
Beyond the Turkey: How Thanksgiving Can Inspire Your Family Legacy Planning
As Thanksgiving approaches, many families are busy planning menus, coordinating travel, and preparing for the big feast. While the turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie are important (and delicious) traditions, this cherished holiday offers something even more valuable—a perfect opportunity to think about, discuss, and preserve your family’s legacy. In this article, you’ll discover practical ways […]
Have Adult Children? Make Sure They Sign These Critical Documents
For many parents, watching their children become adults (at least in the eyes of the law) and leaving home to pursue their education and career goals is a time of joy and also (possibly) apprehension. Turning 18, graduating high school, and moving out is a huge accomplishment. And it also comes with some serious responsibilities […]
Looking to Purchase a New Home? How to Avoid Paying 2 Mortgages at Once
When navigating Chicagoland’s competitive residential real estate market, it’s important to understand the intricacies of various contract provisions, especially the existing home sale contingency. This contingency can play a pivotal role for buyers who need to sell their current home before purchasing a new one. Two primary template contracts used in the area—the Multi-Board Residential […]
What do Lasagna and Estate Planning have in Common?
Have you ever heard horror stories about families fighting over Grandma’s jewelry or getting stuck in a never-ending legal battle after someone passes away? Or about how long it can take to sell a house tied up in the court process? What about family members being denied their inheritance completely? Unfortunately, these situations happen every […]
The Key Differences Between Wills and Trusts You Should Know
When discussing estate planning, a will is what most people think of first. Indeed, wills have been the most popular method for passing on assets to heirs for hundreds of years. But wills aren’t your only option. And if you rely on a will alone to pass on what matters, you’re guaranteeing your family has […]
Protect Your Children’s Inheritance with a Lifetime Asset Protection Trust
As a parent, you’re likely hoping to leave your children an inheritance. In fact, doing so may be one of the primary factors motivating your life’s work. But without taking the proper precautions, the wealth you pass on is at serious risk of being accidentally lost or squandered due to common life events, such as […]
14 Ways to Show Your Finances Some Love This Year – Part 2
Last week we explored 7 ways to show your finances and your family some love with smart, tax-advantaged financial tips for the new year: If you missed it, check out Part 1 HERE. This week, we’re continuing the financial love with 7 more tips you can use to benefit your family this month and the […]
14 Ways to Show Your Finances Some Love This Year – Part 1
Ah, February – the month of love, where hearts flutter and chocolates abound (single people, stay with me here). But amidst the romantic whirlwind, there’s a different kind of love that deserves our attention: the love we show ourselves and our family through thoughtful financial planning. Now I know what you’re thinking – that doesn’t […]
Protecting Your Family’s Safety Net: How to Set Up Your Life Insurance Policy The Right Way
A comprehensive Life & Legacy Plan is about creating a strategy that lets you enjoy your life to the fullest while protecting your loved ones’ future when you can no longer be there. It might seem like life insurance is an easy way to help secure your loved ones’ future – and it is – […]