Dolans.com - Estate Planning

8 Estate Planning Mistakes You're Making

Ken & Daria Dolan — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 15:42:19 GMT

Dear Friend, Death and taxes. Neither is any fun to think about, but both are inevitable. With another tax season behind us, you don’t have to think about taxes for a while, but don’t let another year go by before you think about your estate plan. You do not have to be a millionaire to need a basic estate planning. Every one of us needs to have a plan in place so that we don’t leave our loved ones in the lurch when we are gone. We promise to make this short and simple…so take 10 minutes right now to be sure you aren’t making these common estate planning mistakes. Read more…

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From the Mailbag: Reverse Mortgages

Ken & Daria Dolan — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 18:29:02 GMT

Reverse mortgages have become increasingly popular as many seniors find themselves financially strapped because of both historically low interest rates and portfolios ravaged by the stock market during the past two years. A reverse mortgage enables older homeowners (62+) to convert part of the equity in their homes into tax-free cash without having to sell the home, give up title, or take on a new monthly mortgage payment.

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Insurance is a Numbers Game

Ken & Daria Dolan — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 13:47:43 GMT

Did you know that there is a .33% (less than one half of one percent) chance that you will get in an automobile accident? But you have auto insurance, right? Did you know that there is a .77% chance that you will have a fire in your home anytime in your life? But you have homeowner’s insurance, right? Now did you know that there’s a 70% chance--that’s seven zero–"you will need long-term care at some point in your life? But you have long-term care insurance…right? Probably not. Only 10% of people over 65 do. And that can lead to devastating expenses–"even bankruptcy. Read our guide to long-term care insurance to learn whether LTC insurance is right for you, the best time to buy and exactly what you want in a policy.

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The Right Way to Draft Your Will

Ken Dolan — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 14:34:00 GMT

Everyone - and we mean everyone - should have a will. We know they're not fun to think about, but not having one could mean your loved ones aren't cared for the way you'd like. We'll show you the best way to draft your will.

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Do You Need a Living Trust?

Ken Dolan — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 13:27:00 GMT

As you consider your estate planning strategy, you may want to look into a living trust. For some, this option offers many smart money advantages over a will - such as avoiding costly probate court and taking care of your needs while you're alive. Here are the facts about living trusts to help you decide if they are right for you and your loved ones.

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Money and Re-marriage

Ken Dolan — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 14:05:00 GMT

A remarriage and blending of families can bring much a lot of excitement and joy--but also many financial headaches. Talking about details such as wills and estate benefits are crucial to avoiding legal problems down the road. Here's how to kick off your new life together the right way.

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Year-End Smart Money Move #4: Check Your Life Insurance Beneficiaries

Ken & Daria Dolan — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 18:35:45 GMT

It may not sound like much fun, but our Year-End Smart Money Move #4 only takes 5 minutes and it can make a world of difference. Make sure your life insurance proceeds make it into the hands of your loved ones when you are gone with this simple tip.

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Strategy to Avoid Estate Taxes

Ken Dolan — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 14:01:00 GMT

Chances are good that the Bush estate tax repeal will be wiped out by Congress this year. That means you could lose as much as 45% of your estate to taxes! Here's a strategy that can reduce your estate taxes so your loved ones keep more of what you worked so hard to leave behind.

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