Generally-speaking, any asset with a directly named beneficiary is excluded from the probate process, such as 401(k)s, IRAs, life insurance policies, investment accounts with a transfer-on-death (TOD) registration, and bank accounts with a payable-on-death (POD) registration. In the event one of these account-types fails to name a beneficiary, that account would be transferred through the probate process. There are also key advantages to using a trust to avoid probate. Learn more.

When considering if a Roth Conversion is right for you, it's important to evaluate your current financial situation, future income expectations, and long-term retirement goals. We encourage you to seek the guidance of a financial professional to review the complexities of this strategy. That said, here's an informative introduction to the Roth Conversion strategy — how it works, why one would consider taking advantage of it, and when it could make the most sense to be considered.

For a majority of Americans, a Will is likely sufficient to accomplish their simple wealth transfer needs and desires. For others with more complex wealth transfer stipulations, a Will may fall short and the use of a Trust may be necessary. Learn more about the important estate planning conversation: Will vs. Trust.

As you work through the labyrinth of decisions that move you from working and planning and working some more, to drawing an income and conserving value, it is always a welcome discovery to reduce your tax bill and, therefore, add another layer of security to your personal financial outlook.

One of the lesser-known strategies some retirees should consider applies if they have company stock within their 401(k) or Profit Sharing Plan; the special tax election is known by the label Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA). Learn more.

The author shares her personal story of her mother's loss due to COVID-19 to highlight the importance of how thorough estate planning can ease a family's burden during a time of grief and sorrow.

Implementing a planned giving program can be overwhelming and costly. But it's important to let your donors and constituents know you are open for business and ready to accept charitable legacies through bequests and beneficiary designations. Learn more.