Are You Prepared for the High Cost of Dying?
End-of-life care and funeral expenses can create a heavy financial burden on top of emotional loss. From hospital bills and hospice to funeral arrangements and estate administration, the true costs are often higher than families expect.
Avoiding Probate with a TOD Deed and TOD Account
Want to leave your home or brokerage account to your heirs without the hassle of probate? A Transfer-on-Death (TOD) deed or account might be a simpler, cost-effective solution. But there are rules to know—especially when it comes to taxes and state laws.
Social Security and Medicare 2025 Trustees Reports: It’s Time to Address Funding Concerns
The latest Social Security and Medicare Trustees Reports are out—and the message is clear: funding shortfalls are getting closer. Learn what’s at stake, what fixes are being considered, and what you can do now to stay prepared.
Navigating Financial Conversations with Aging Parents
Talking to your parents about money isn’t easy—but it’s essential. From organizing documents to planning for future care, here are practical tips to help you navigate this important conversation.
Debt After Death: What Happens to Debt When Someone Dies?
Losing a loved one is difficult, and dealing with their financial matters can add stress to an already emotional time. Fortunately, in most cases, you are not personally responsible for their debts.
What’s New for 2025?
New year, new changes! We look at 5 key updates coming in the new year that could impact your finances. Stay informed and prepared for 2025!
Beyond Inheritance: The Executor’s Essential Role in Settling an Estate
Director of Research, Nick Antonucci, CVA, CEPA, is joined by Managing Associate Melanie Wells, CFP®, and estate planning attorney Arun Gupta to break down a situation where a son has been named the executor of his mother’s estate. Arun explores the order in which the process usually follows and the duties of an executor.
2025 Medicare Open Enrollment Kicks Off
Medicare Open Enrollment is here! Now’s the time to review your coverage and make sure it fits your needs and budget for 2025. From switching plans to new cost caps on prescription drugs, learn about your options and key updates before the December 7 deadline.
A Critical Combo: Life Insurance with Long-Term Care Benefits
Long-term care expenses can be a major financial concern in retirement, but there are ways to plan ahead. From hybrid life insurance policies with LTC coverage to adding LTC riders to life insurance, there are alternatives to traditional LTC insurance. Explore the options to see what works best for you.
Minimize a Surviving Spouse’s Estate Tax: The Benefits of the Portability Election
We break down Form 706 United States Estate (and Generation-Skipping Transfer) Tax Return and the portability election, a key feature that allows a surviving spouse to utilize their deceased spouse’s unused estate tax exclusion. Learn how this can save your family millions in estate taxes, the qualifications, special filing rules, and common complications when preparing the form.