We have seen some step siblings able to all get along fine but they seem to be the exception. More likely, one sibling feels divided loyalty to the birth parent, not the step-parent.
Power of Attorney and Advance Directives
Some people think that, because their assets are jointly owned with a spouse or are in a trust, they do not need a Power of Attorney, or that if they become incapacitated, their spouse automatically has the authority to make medical decisions on their behalf.
Why Would I Need a Will or a Trust?
Should I terminate these trusts and just have my children as beneficiaries of my investment accounts and life insurance?
How Do You Divide Inheritance among Children?
First, before making a gift or bequest outright to your youngest son, consider whether now or in the future he will possibly be eligible for governmental assistance based on his disability and his own assets.
Is It a Good Idea for a Living Trust to Be Beneficiary of IRA?
It’s generally a bad idea to name a trust as beneficiary of your IRA. The IRA usually loses the power of tax deferral, because it must be distributed faster than in other scenarios.
What is the 411 on 529 College Savings Plans?
College savings accounts, known as the 529 Plan, can be confusing. Parents know that they have tax incentives. However, what exactly are those benefits? Which investment options make the most sense? Which costs are covered, and which aren’t? Many parents don’t care if they have so many questions. Here are answers to frequently asked questions about the 529 plan to help get rid of some of the fog.
Should You Claim Social Security Early?
Experts often recommend postponing claiming Social Security. However, there are situations in which you should claim sooner.
Which Is Better a Traditional IRA or a Roth?
Traditional IRAs have been available to retirement savers who have earned income since 1974. That’s 23 years longer than Roth IRAs (introduced in 1997) have been on the scene. The big difference between these two types of individual retirement savings vehicles is when you pay federal (and possibly state) income tax on your savings.
What are Your Typical Estate Plan Documents?
If you want loved ones to remember you fondly, tackle your estate planning tasks. Your heirs will thank you for not leaving a legal mess to sort out.
What Is the Required Minimum Distribution for 2021?
Whether you need to take required minimum distributions to live or find them to be a nuisance, here are some tips to make the most of withdrawing these funds.