Estate Planning

Named An Executor? What You Need to Know

 If you or your clients are named executor of an estate, understand what’s required to protect from liability. (By Assunta McLane)

Planning a Thoughtful Wealth Transfer

There are many ways to harness the step-up in basis while ensuring financial security — and avoiding many pitfalls. (By Mallon FitzPatrick)

A Wealth Shift That Could Leave Some Younger Americans Behind

The narrative of a vast generational wealth transfer to millennials leaves out families without enough assets to pass along.

Probate is a Four-Letter Word

People seem to fear probate more than death, Teaching clients the basics can reduce their anxiety and poor outcomes. (By Seth Bier)

Are Pooled Special-Needs Trusts Safe?

A $100M+ theft and the recent bankruptcy of a special needs fund provider should encourage you to ask questions. (By Kristin Carleton)

5 Steps to Safeguard Your Client’s Estate

An estate-planning attorney discusses how to avoid probate, reduce taxes and protect assets from nursing homes.

Family of Beach Boys Founder Asks for Conservatorship

The family of Brian Wilson, the musical architect whose genius helped power the Beach Boys, is seeking to place him under a conservatorship.

Can Medicaid Take a Healthy Spouse Hostage?

Selling the family home may not be an option if the sick spouse requires long-term care — unless the couple plans correctly. (By Cathy Sikorski)

George Carlin’s Estate Sues Podcasters Over AI Episode

The lawsuit says the podcast makers infringed on the estate’s copyrights by training an AI algorithm on five decades of Carlin’s works.

Former Switchboard Operator Donates $1.7 Million to the Arts

An opera aficionado, she lived in a rent-controlled apartment and made plans to give away the money to cultural groups upon her death.

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Bluespring Wealth Partners Acquires Scottsdale, Ariz., firm

Led by husband and wife Kevin and Carrie Dick, KDI Wealth Management oversees $750M in client assets and is rated in the top 10 in state by Forbes.

Judge Halts Rule Capping Credit-Card Late Fees

A federal judge in Texas halted the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau's new rule capping credit card late fees at $8.

Inflation, Economic Uncertainty Upending Retirement Dreams for Many

Nationwide’s Advisor Authority survey finds many are taking non-traditional approaches to retirement, including moving in with their adult children.

Perigon Wealth Management Appoints Head of Advisor Success and Integration

Maria Daley has more than 30 years of experience leading business development and relationship management teams.

SEC Wants RIAs to Verify Customer Identities

The SEC and Treasury say the rule is needed because customers have used RIAs for illicit foreign financial activity in the United States.

Concerns About Insufficient Savings Keep Many Retirees Awake, Survey Finds

Among those in retirement, 32% fear they have too little savings, according to the Schroders 2024 US Retirement Survey.

Families to Save $10 Billion Annually in Credit Card Late Fees

This estimate comes from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, whose new rule capping late fees at $8 is effective May 14.