Category: Planning for the Family

By Marc C. Shaffer

The idea of a “boomerang” generation has been around for a long time, but a new economic situation could be fueling another wave of boomerangers. Sure, there are still children who graduate and move back in with their parents right away. But while many adults are still recovering from pandemic-era job loss and financial recovery, the housing situation of low inventory, high prices and high interest rates is not helping. This could cause children of any age to boomerang right back into the nest.

Passing your estate to an heir with credit problems, a shaky marriage, a gambling or alcohol addiction, or any other concerning situation might not only lead to that wealth being squandered, but the inheritance could worsen destructive behaviors.

Of course, you don’t want to disinherit your child(ren) simply because of their personal challenges. There are potential solutions that allow parents to control and incentivize behaviors long after they are gone, helping ensure that a troubled child’s inheritance won’t be misused.

You do not want to avoid or delay creating a plan hoping that your heir’s issue will go away. This could result in you passing before any plans have been set and the inheritance could be given without restrictions.

By Jessica Searcy Kmetty

Whether you’re talking about finances as a couple, as a family, or with a financial advisor, the situation can feel uncomfortable and vulnerable.

Chances are, finances weren’t talked about in your house growing up. For many, discussing such things was considered taboo, so it’s hard to start a conversation now about something you just don’t have experience talking about.

But, staying quiet about finances could hurt you.

By John C. Fales

Should we include our children in conversations about inheritance, our net worth and our estate plan?

Should we be gifting assets to our children along the way or should we control the money until it transfers to them upon death?

How do we teach our children and grandchildren to be smart with money?

When an individual or couple has more than enough assets to meet their personal needs, thoughts often turn to how best to provide for and transfer wealth to the next generations.

A living trust is a popular consideration in many estate strategy conversations, but its appropriateness will depend upon your individual needs and objectives.

Actor Lee Marvin once said, “As soon as people see my face on a movie screen, they [know] two things: first, I’m not going to get the girl, and second, I’ll get a cheap funeral before the picture is over.”

Most people don’t spend too much time thinking about their own funeral, and yet, many of us have a vision about our memorial service or the handling of our remains. A letter of instruction can help you accomplish that goal.

We talk a lot about estate planning because taking steps to help protect your estate is a key financial choice. With proper strategies, you may be able to maximize your opportunities and help manage stress and confusion for your loved ones. Yet, approximately 50% of 50 year olds don’t have a will in place — despite the fact that almost 60% of Americans plan to leave an inheritance.

Taking time to create estate strategies not only helps you put your financial house in order, but can also save you money. By documenting your wishes and goals, you create a legal framework that the courts, your executor, and your loved ones can follow when settling your estate. Without these strategies in place, your family risks going through a lengthy and expensive process — which could alter any wishes you had for your legacy.

By Jessica Searcy Kmetty

In Part I of this blog series, we introduced you to Meredith, a self-described community creator, home curator, minimalist, hipster mama who is raising 3 “wonderful wilds” in NYC. We talked about how she manages finances for her family, how she and her husband discuss their money scripts, and her philosophy on debt and spending. In Part II, we talked about her family’s “no-spend” months and how you could incorporate them into your life. In Part III, we’re going to hear more about her children, all of whom are employed.

Whether you have your family in mind, or lifelong friends, you want their futures to be safe and secure. You want the people you love to prosper in life. And what better way to show your devotion and appreciation than by ensuring your hard-earned money and investments go to them—after your passing?

So, how do you keep your money in your family or within your circle of closest friends rather than lost to legal fees or government portions?

By Jessica Searcy Kmetty

In Part I of this blog series, we introduced you to Meredith, a self-described community creator, home curator, minimalist, hipster mama who is raising 3 “wonderful wilds” in NYC. We talked about how she manages finances for her family, how she and her husband discuss their money scripts, and her philosophy on debt and spending. In Part II, we’re going to dive deeper into something she has been trying out with her family – no spend months.