Blog

Jan. 3, 2023

The beginning of a new year is a good time to take a look at your estate plan to make sure it is up to date. Less than half of people actually have any estate planning documents in place and many of those people may have outdated documents. Documents that were created when your children were born may need updating 20, 30, or 40 years later, after your family and financial situation have changed entirely.

Jan. 2, 2023

Medicare is federal health insurance for people over 65, some younger people with disabilities, and those with end-stage renal disease. Coverage of housekeeping services under Medicare can depend on several factors.

Dec. 26, 2022

A diagnosis of dementia, a category of diseases affecting memory and thinking that includes Alzheimer’s disease, can feel overwhelming and upsetting. You might worry that you will lose control over your life and ability to make your own decisions. Fortunately, receiving a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s does not mean that you cannot execute legal documents or make decisions about plans for your future finances and health care.

Dec. 19, 2022

It's that time of year again where families gather together to celebrate the holidays. For some, this is a cherished tradition filled with excitement and joy. For others, it can be a reminder of loved ones who are no longer with us. Either way, the holiday season is often a time when people reflect on what is important to them.

Dec. 13, 2022

Although inflation is generally nothing to be pleased about, the IRS recently announced inflation-adjusted changes to the annual gift tax annual and estate tax exclusions for 2023. If you are considering wealth transfer tax planning, these are welcome increases.

Dec. 6, 2022

With the end of the year fast approaching, it is important to plan for tax savings. Charitable giving can be a great way to save on taxes and make a difference in the lives of others. Not only does charitable giving provide you with a tax deduction, but it also provides you with an opportunity to give back and support your local community.

Nov. 29, 2022

As we’ve explained in several prior newsletters, a trust is a legal relationship between three parties: the grantor, also called trustor or settlor, the trustee, and the beneficiary. The grantor is the person who creates and funds the trust. The trustee is the person who manages the trust property according to the terms of the trust agreement. The beneficiary is the person who benefits from the trust property.

Nov. 22, 2022

This week I am spending time with family reflecting on all God's wonderful blessings in my life; my health, my children, my home, my firm family (all of you guys that I have the privilege of serving), and countless other blessings. I came across this prayer written by Ralph Waldo Emerson a few years ago, that captures these feelings of gratitude that I would like to share, because it is a reminder to be thankful for all things.

Nov. 22, 2022

As people age, accessing healthy meals can become more challenging. According to Feeding America, one in five older adults was food-insecure in 2020. Some older adults struggle with affording healthy foods, whereas others have difficulty going to the grocery store and preparing meals when recovering from an illness or injury.

Nov. 15, 2022

A children’ s trust is the best way to protect and provide for your little ones. By creating a trust properly, you ensure that your children have the resources they need when they need it. However, your carefully laid plans can be ruined by making one of these common mistakes.