On August 14, 1935, the US federal government launched its social insurance program to provide retirement, disability, and survivor benefits. Since that time, in part due to the disappearance of extended family networks, an increase in population, and a profound…
During probate, the will of a deceased individual is authenticated, assets are reviewed, debts are paid, taxes are collected, and assets are distributed to heirs. Legally, probate is the process of authenticating the will of a deceased person, reviewing their…
An annuity is a financial product that pays a fixed amount of money every year throughout the life of the annuitant. Most annuities are deferred, meaning the payout doesn’t occur until a later date. However, you can receive immediate payouts…
There are many situations where it makes perfect sense to divide assets equally among children. Yet, in some families, each child receiving the same inheritance can be inappropriate, deplete the estate’s assets due to ensuing litigation, or cause other family…
When it comes to inheriting money or property, most parents treat their children equally. But sometimes, parents intentionally choose to not leave anything to a child, and the reasons for doing so may vary. One reason could be that a…
The disposition of your assets in your estate plan may seem unrelated to life insurance at first glance. However, life insurance can be an integral, indispensably important part of a well-thought-out estate plan. There are numerous other benefits to owning a…
It is one of life’s most emotionally taxing events to lose a close relative. Additionally, there is the stress of handling the estate and affairs of the deceased person. This part can be especially overwhelming. The process of proving to a…
Family ties are crucial in the lives of seniors. Family creates a consistent social network and connection that directly impacts the senior’s overall quality of life. Prioritizing family relationships provides continuity as a senior experiences change in their social network.…
Envision Jane, an elderly woman whose health had deteriorated to the point she decided she needed to move into an assisted living facility. Jane’s arthritis had worsened to the point where she couldn’t dress, she struggled to get in and…
In spite of the popularity of aging in place, many of us face the issue of what to do when we notice an elderly relative is having trouble living safely at home. Troublesome signs like a dirty home in poor…