Reflecting on 2024: Embracing the Positivity of the Year That Was
As we begin the new year, there’s a wonderful opportunity to look back at 2024 with a sense of appreciation and joy. No matter what 2024 held for you, every moment contributed to your personal growth, wisdom and resilience.
How to Make Charitable Giving Part of Your Financial Plan
COVID-19 caused an economic shockwave that we’ll feel for a long time. Nonprofits, from large global networks to the local churches, have been hit hard, too. In a recent survey of 110 nonprofits, 80% of them said revenue had fallen across the board.
How a Donor-Advised Fund Can Help Your Charitable Giving
Giving is an important part of our society for many. It can provide us the opportunity to support causes we believe in and make a positive impact. Keep in mind, giving isn’t always about donating money. It can also include volunteering time or donating goods and resources. Here are some exa …
Pirates & Parrots & Legacy
The other day in our van, my wife turned on a new Zac Brown song for me to listen to. It wound up with us also listening to his “Pirates and Parrots” song. Now, I didn’t know going in what the song was about, but it didn’t take me very long to work it out.
Leaving a Legacy
My Grandma Ann came from dirt floors and 13 brothers and sisters. She left high school to work and help support her family after her father died at the age of 40. Later, she put herself through business school to become a secretary and from there, built a life with my grandfather along with …
Choosing the Right Trustee for Your Estate Plan
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when designing your estate plan is who to name in the various fiduciary roles: trustee, personal representative, executor and agent. While a critical decision, it’s often given significantly less thought than the distribution of your assets. B …
Revocable Living Trusts as part of an Estate Plan
Our latest webinar, Revocable Living Trusts as part of an Estate Plan with Carson Group’s Director, Trust Services Scott Berryman and Manager & Sr. Wealth Planner Tom Fridrich is now available for viewing on-demand.
Estate Planning
Often, people believe that estate planning only benefits the very wealthy, but nothing could be further from the truth. It’s something everyone needs to engage in regardless of age, estate size or marital status. If you have a bank account, investments, a car, home or other property—you hav …
Helping Aging Parents Manage and Protect Their Finances
Your parents taught you everything you know about money. From opening your first checking account to taking out your first car loan, they were always there to guide you. But as your parents get older, they may begin turning to you for help with their finances. How do you begin to navigate t …
When Should I Start Worrying About an Estate Plan?
Who wants to spend an afternoon thinking about their mortality? No one, which is why more than half of Americans don’t even have a will. A will is a legal document that directs:
COMPLIMENTARY RESOURCE
A Guide to Gifting to Your Heirs
Gifting to your loved ones now or posthumously each carries their own positives and negatives as they relate to your estate plan, taxes, your goals and your legacy.