“Anybody with wealth needs to plan,” says Shenkman. Estates with values exceeding the exemption amount by more than $1 ...

“Estate planning” is off-putting on so many levels. “Estate” conjures up images of the uber-wealthy setting aside giant tracts of land for the next generation. (Do I even have an estate, you wonder?) ...

It can be easy to overlook, but an estate plan is essential for nearly everyone, whether you have a lot of money or just a little. An estate plan tells your heirs and the courts how to divide up your ...

Christy Bieber has a JD from UCLA School of Law and began her career as a college instructor and textbook author. She has been writing full time for over a decade with a focus on making financial and ...

Troy Segal is an editor and writer. She has 20+ years of experience covering personal finance, wealth management, and business news. Ebony Howard is a certified public accountant and a QuickBooks ...

As we wrap up a season of joyous feasts and a copious amount of family time, it’s a perfect time to remember how important family is, as we are aware that we will not be here forever. It may be a ...

I too often find that individuals neglect to put an estate plan together because of the common misconception that estate planning is only for the ultra-wealthy. Since it’s a process that invariably ...

A to-do list for preparing an estate plan and avoiding any serious omissions or mistakes. Life is complicated. Money is complicated. Now imagine someone you love getting a phone call at 1 a.m. and ...

Investopedia contributors come from a range of backgrounds, and over 25 years there have been thousands of expert writers and editors who have contributed. Khadija Khartit is a strategy, investment, ...

Estate planning is an essential part of wealth management. It’s particularly important in cases where your client’s estate involves significant assets (such as cottages or small businesses), complex ...

Estate planning helps you control who gets your assets when you die and who will make medical decisions if you become incapacitated. Creating a trust and choosing a healthcare proxy are essential ...