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What Happens to Your Will When You Move to a New State

What Happens to Your Will When You Move to a New State?

POSTED ON: August 4, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
When you relocate to a different state, your focus is likely on finding new housing, adjusting to tax changes, or updating your driver’s license. But one crucial item often overlooked is your estate plan—especially your will. While most states will honor a will that was validly executed in another state, that doesn’t mean your current […]
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Inheriting a Home with a Mortgage What You Need to Know Before You Decide

Inheriting a Home with a Mortgage: What You Need to Know Before You Decide

POSTED ON: August 1, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
When a loved one passes away and leaves behind a home, it may feel like a gift—but it often comes with strings attached. If there’s still a mortgage on the property, the inheritance includes both the asset and its financial obligations. Understanding your options early on can help you avoid unnecessary stress and protect your […]
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Why Saying “No” to an Inheritance Might Be the Smartest Move

Why Saying “No” to an Inheritance Might Be the Smartest Move

POSTED ON: July 30, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
Inheriting money or property often sounds like a blessing—but in some cases, it can become a financial burden. If an estate hasn’t been carefully planned, you may find yourself facing unintended consequences. As highlighted in USA Today’s article, “Got a big inheritance coming your way? You may just want to say no. Here’s why,” there […]
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Making the Most of Market Swings How Short-Term GRATs Can Strengthen Your Estate Plan

Making the Most of Market Swings: How Short-Term GRATs Can Strengthen Your Estate Plan

POSTED ON: July 28, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
Periods of market volatility can be nerve-wracking—but for the savvy estate planner, they may also present a window of opportunity. One strategy worth considering during unpredictable markets is the use of a short-term Grantor Retained Annuity Trust (GRAT), especially when the value of certain assets has dipped. Why GRATs Are Strategic in a Down Market […]
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Estate Planning with Heart A Strategy for Keeping Your Family Close

Estate Planning with Heart: A Strategy for Keeping Your Family Close

POSTED ON: July 25, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
When most people think about estate planning, they think about finances, legal documents, and avoiding probate. But for many families, one of the most overlooked reasons to create a thoughtful estate plan is to protect family relationships. Without careful planning, even a well-intentioned will or trust can spark tension and conflict. Why a “Fair” Plan […]
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When Is the Right Time to Begin Special Needs Planning?

When Is the Right Time to Begin Special Needs Planning?

POSTED ON: July 23, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
Raising a child with special needs involves far more than day-to-day caregiving. Parents must also think about long-term financial security, legal protections, and care arrangements—tasks that can feel overwhelming but are critical for the child’s future. Special needs planning focuses on protecting eligibility for government benefits, creating legal tools to manage assets, and arranging care […]
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Estate Planning: A Key to Building Wealth Across Generations

Estate Planning: A Key to Building Wealth Across Generations

POSTED ON: July 21, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s a tool everyone needs to ensure their assets are passed down according to their wishes. Without a plan, state intestacy laws determine who inherits your property, often in ways that don’t reflect your intentions. A powerful example of this comes from music legend Prince. When he passed away […]
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Can Your Heirs Access Your Safe Deposit Box After You’re Gone

Can Your Heirs Access Your Safe Deposit Box After You’re Gone?

POSTED ON: July 18, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
Safe deposit boxes often get overlooked in estate planning, yet they can create big headaches for loved ones after a death. Accessing a safe deposit box without prior planning can be both complicated and costly. An article from MSN, “My sister and her husband died within days of each other. Their banks won’t let me […]
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How to Use Gifting to Lower Estate Taxes and Leave a Legacy

How to Use Gifting to Lower Estate Taxes and Leave a Legacy

POSTED ON: July 16, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
Gifting is one of the most powerful—and often overlooked—tools in estate planning. Done strategically, it can reduce the size of your taxable estate, minimize future tax liability, and allow you to help loved ones during your lifetime. A recent Investopedia article, “Tax-Smart Giving: How to Gift $1M Without the IRS Calling,” outlines how to use […]
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The Essential Guide to Estate Planning: Why It Matters for Everyone

The Essential Guide to Estate Planning: Why It Matters for Everyone

POSTED ON: July 14, 2025 BY: Troy Werner
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants to protect their loved ones and ensure their wishes are followed. A recent article from MSN titled “Essential Steps for Effective Estate Planning” highlights why taking the time to prepare an estate plan is one of the most important steps you can take for […]
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