A Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) is one of the most important—but often overlooked—documents in a sound estate plan. While many individuals focus on wills and trusts, a properly structured DPOA is what ensures that financial decisions can continue seamlessly during your lifetime if you become unable to manage your affairs.
Read MoreLet’s face it, sometimes life can be messy. On occasion, we have the discussion with clients about what would happen if they were to pass away, leaving their adult child with a sizable inheritance and then their child goes through a divorce. Would the son, or daughter-in-law be able to take these inherited assets in the event of a divorce?
Read MoreHere are several questions you should ask yourself to ensure you have taken the necessary precautions in the event something unforeseen should happen:
Read MoreOn July 4th, 2025 the new tax and spending bill was signed into law. There are many changes/updates included in the new law from taxation and spending to national defense. While there are many opinions regarding the costs and benefits of the new law, we wanted to take time to outline the provisions that directly relate to our clients and their taxes.
Read MoreIn 2020, the SECURE Act changed the distribution requirements for non-spousal beneficiaries of IRAs. The new rules are fairly complicated. We will review the rules and discuss the options and opportunities to optimize the tax impact of these inherited IRA distributions.
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I am at the age where I am really beginning to realize how fragile life can be at times. Recently, we learned that former University of North Carolina basketball great, Eric Montross had lost his battle with cancer and died at the young age of 52.
Read MoreAs people age, they may find that living in a retirement community or continuing care community can offer them the support, care, and amenities they need to live a fulfilling life. However, choosing the right community and planning for life in such a community can be a complex process.
Read MoreWhen it comes to financial planning, one of the easiest and most important things to accomplish is an overall review of your estate plan. We suggest that you review your estate plan every couple of years or when there are changes in your family that may impact your estate planning. Here is a checklist of estate planning items to review that may be helpful.
Read MoreOn this episode of Finance In A Flash, we wrap up our series on Estate Planning by discussing common types of trusts. Chip and John briefly discuss several common types of trusts, their objectives, pros and cons, and tax and estate implications!
Read MoreOn this episode of Finance In A Flash, we continue our series on Estate Planning by discussing Revocable Living Trusts. Chip and John discuss key components of a Revocable Living Trust including: the primary purposes, how they are handled from a tax perspective, and other reasons to consider this estate planning tool!
Read MoreOn this episode of Finance In A Flash, we continue our series on Estate Planning by discussing Probate. Chip and John discuss what probate actually means, the assets included in the probate process, what assets are NOT included in the probate process, and so much more!
Read MoreOn this episode of Finance in a Flash, Chip and John kick off our series on Estate Planning. We discuss asset titling and the importance of understanding how different assets are titled!
Read MoreThrough hard work and sound financial planning, some find themselves in situations in which they are contemplating intra-family financial planning. That is, identifying financial planning techniques that can be used to financially strengthen the next generation—children and grandchildren.
Read MoreLet’s face it, in today’s world, managing your personal financial affairs can be complex. There are many decisions that need to be made on a weekly or even daily basis. For a large and growing segment of the population, who are trying to help aging parents with their finances, this can be incredibly frustrating, stressful and burdensome.
Read MoreThis article provides insight into a number of strategies and methods for making charitable gifts.
Read MoreParents with special needs children can face a unique set of financial challenges. However, like all financial challenges, it is important to take measures early to financially prepare for the future
Read MoreAn adequately planned and properly executed estate plan can ensure that your assets will pass directly to your intended heirs with the least amount of cost and hassle. Here are seven essential elements when establishing a sound estate plan:
Read MoreRoth IRAs are great savings mechanisms and can be used effectively for retirement and education planning. One of the less publicized advantages to Roth IRAs is that they can be a great estate planning technique when someone wants to pass along as much as possible to their heirs.
Read MoreMany financial planning objectives can be accomplished through the utilization of trusts. Here are several of the most common types of trusts and a brief overview of their purpose…
Read MoreMany people would prefer that their estates avoid the probate process. While the probate process is not overly costly in most states, it is generally considered a hassle to those who have experienced it. The following is a discussion on several alternatives for avoiding probate.
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