A declining memory, reduced coherence and reasoning, and an inability to focus. These are just some of the many signs that a loved one has dementia. You want what’s best for our loved one in their time of need, but you also want to respect their autonomy over themselves. That’s why at the first signs of dementia, you should also consider consulting with a lawyer about arranging these 5 essential documents with or for Read More

Asset protection planning isn't just for the wealthy! You may not have a particularly large estate or varied assets, but asset protection planning is a strategy anyone can use to keep their money safe from various financial issues. If you own real estate, a car, a retirement plan, investments, or other such assets, then it's worth reading up on the process to see if it might benefit you in the future. What Is Read More

Estate planning covers more than just your will—in fact, it covers so much ground that you may have trouble knowing where to start. The concept of estate planning may seem overwhelming at first, but if you take it step by step, you'll soon be able to build a comprehensive plan that protects your wishes and maximizes the assets you pass down to your loved ones. Take a look at these useful tips to stay focused as you Read More

The executor for your estate has a very important job. After you pass away, they will be in charge of filing court papers to start probate, taking inventory of your estate, paying your estate's bills and taxes, distributing assets to your beneficiaries, and more. It goes without saying that your executor should be a person you trust—but what other qualities should you look for in an executor? Here are a few things to Read More

When a person passes away with or without a will, that person's estate may have to go through a process called “probate.” It commonly involves transferring assets to the person's inheritors, paying any debts and taxes that the estate may owe, and determining whether the will is valid. Probate in Washington will look a little different from the process in other states, so here's what you need to know if you reside in Read More

If you need to ask when you should start writing your will and other documents, most estate planning experts will tell you the same thing: you should have started yesterday! It doesn't matter if you're a young newlywed with no children, a middle-aged divorcee, or a senior citizen with a huge family—a solid estate plan is absolutely essential to your future. There are several important reasons why youngsters and old Read More

You may have heard that gifts are an excellent way to reduce estate taxes. When you take the right approach, gifts can be very useful, but it's important to first understand how gift laws work in your state. If you live in Washington State, keep reading to learn how gifts are governed and how they can benefit you and your loved ones. What's the legal definition of a gift? When you give away something of Read More

Are you thinking about whether you or a loved one will need long-term care in the future? It's never too early to start planning. If you give enough thought to long-term care and LTC insurance now, you'll be better equipped for any future changes—and you'll have more potential to save money. Take a look at this overview of long-term care insurance to learn what it is, who may need it, and how it can benefit your Read More

The “do-it-yourself” approach has been cropping up all over social media in recent years, usually presented as hobbies and money-saving hacks. The fun side of DIY may look like hand-knitted scarves, homemade soaps, and upcycled clothing, but the other side is riddled with botched plumbing jobs and sketchy electrical work. In other words, there are some things you should never DIY—and estate planning is one of Read More

Medicaid has helped millions of seniors, people with disabilities, pregnant women, and children get the health care coverage they need. The program is jointly funded by the federal and state governments, designed to help financially eligible people get the medical and long-term care. Whether you need financial aid now, you're planning ahead for the future, or you're researching on behalf of a loved one, there are Read More