If you’ve taken the step of getting a financial power of attorney (POA) in place for a parent, you’ve already done something important. A POA allows you to help manage your parent’s finances if they become unable to do so—or even just need a hand as they age. But many adult children walk away from signing the documents and wonder: Now what? Here are some practical steps you can take to make sure the POA is actually usable when the…
Estate planning is a fundamental aspect of securing your legacy. It ensures the management of your assets according to your wishes. Part of this planning often includes appointing a trusted individual as your agent through a General Durable Power of Attorney (POA). This legal document grants your chosen representative the authority to manage your financial affairs. This includes dealing with banks on your behalf. There may come a time, however when your bank refuses your POA, leaving you and your…
Reviewing your parents estate plans with them is always a prudent thing to do. Keeping an up-to-date estate plan will ensure that your elderly parents’ wishes are carried out in the event of their incapacitation or death. It can also help to avoid potential conflicts and legal issues that may arise in the future. If you want to help your parents update their estate plans, here are some steps you can take: Encourage them to review their current estate documents…
In the United States, over five and a half million people suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. As the population ages, more people are expected to suffer from dementia and other cognitive impairments. A joint bank account can come in handy as a means to avoid some of the problems that can come with managing finances when someone is struggling with cognitive impairment. Shared banking accounts can help simplify money management for an adult child and their loved one who is suffering…
All work and no estate plan makes Jack a dull boy. All work and no estate plan makes Jack a dull boy. I know estate planning ranks right up there with having a root canal. But, I do my best to make going through the haunted hotel of estate planning as painless as possible. The most difficult part for many is starting. And getting started is as simple as scheduling an initial consultation. During our consultation, I’ll ask you what…