estate planning Archives - DR News - News, Retirement, Finance

Alarming Realities Retirees Need to Face Regarding Cohabitation and Estate Planning

The relationship landscape has significantly changed over the past several decades. According to a study by the National Center for Family & Marriage Research, the marriage rate in 1970 was 76.5%; today, it stands at 31%. These days, an increasing number of couples at all stages of life are choosing the path of cohabitation over the legal binds of marriage. However, with that flexibility comes challenges, especially regarding estate planning. Long-term cohabitation without the bounds …

The Best 401(k) Secret Mortgage Trick

As you approach retirement, financial planning becomes increasingly crucial. One significant decision you might face is whether to use your 401(k) savings to pay off your mortgage. This strategy has pros and cons, critical to making an informed decision. Pros of Using 401(k) Funds to Pay Off Your Mortgage Increased Cash Flow in Retirement Paying off your mortgage with your 401(k) can significantly reduce your monthly expenses as you enter retirement. This move can free …

Should You Trust an Online Service to Draft Your Will? Here’s What You Need to Know

Many Americans overlook the importance of writing a will when it comes to estate planning. According to a survey conducted by Caring.com, two out of three adults in the United States do not have an estate plan. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and inflation may have prompted some individuals to consider creating a will. According to the survey, the number of younger Americans in 2024 are 63% more likely to have a will. The creation of …

The Surprising Ways Your Credit Score Dictates Your Retirement Luxury

When one envisions retirement, the usual images that come to mind are sandy beaches, peaceful afternoons, and a life free of financial worries. However, the tranquility of retirement can be easily disrupted if one doesn’t consider the significance of a good credit score. It’s a common misconception that once you’re retired, credit scores lose their relevance. In reality, even in retirement, a solid credit score can hold as much weight as during one’s earning years, …

What Your Family MUST Know About Mortgages When You Pass Away!

Navigating the intricacies of mortgage responsibilities after a borrower’s demise is crucial, especially for retirees planning their estates. A mortgage doesn’t automatically dissolve upon death; it remains active, and the handling of the debt can take various paths depending on existing arrangements and state laws. Co-Signer and Family Implications If there’s a co-signer on the mortgage, their obligation to repay the loan persists. In cases where a family member inherits the property, they usually acquire …

Wake-Up Call: The 3 Overlooked Realities Facing Every Retiree

Retirement, though meticulously planned for, often arrives with unexpected realities that can challenge even the most foresightful individuals—these significant life transitions usher in a whirlwind of alterations to one’s daily life and finances. Some retirees have to adjust to specific pivotal changes such as downsizing living spaces, budgeting with a tighter income, and dissociating personal identity from professional roles. However, the evolution doesn’t end there. As retirement approaches or if you’re already at the cusp …

The Dark Side of Growing Old: Elder Financial Abuse

In today’s rapidly aging society, the elderly face a myriad of challenges. From health concerns to adapting to new technologies, the golden years can sometimes feel less than golden. Among these challenges, elder financial abuse is one of the most insidious and often overlooked. This form of exploitation not only robs our seniors of their hard-earned savings but also their trust and peace of mind. The National Council on Aging paints a grim picture, reporting …

Are Your Assets Safe? Discover the Power of Revocable Trusts

A revocable trust, often called a living trust, is a versatile legal arrangement designed to manage and distribute assets during a person’s lifetime and after their passing. Once created, a revocable trust takes effect immediately, unlike a will, which only becomes operational upon death. Revocable trusts allow grantors (individuals who establish trusts) to maintain control over their assets while simplifying wealth transfers to beneficiaries. This legal tool offers numerous benefits, but it’s essential to understand …

Why Paying Off Your Mortgage Before Retirement Offers Numerous Benefits

As retirement approaches, financial planning becomes crucial for individuals looking to ensure a comfortable and stress-free post-work life. Among the many factors to address, whether to pay off your mortgage before retiring emerges as a significant consideration. Below are some key points to consider. Financial Freedom and Reduced Monthly Obligations One of the primary benefits of paying off your mortgage before retiring is the sense of financial freedom it provides. As you eliminate your monthly …

Estate Battles? Not on Our Watch: Retirement Planning for the Modern Family

In an era where blended families are becoming increasingly common, addressing the financial challenges tied to retirement and estate planning is more crucial than ever. As per the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 16% of children in America are part of a blended family, spotlighting the unique financial considerations these families face. These challenges can seem daunting, from differing financial resources and obligations to potential disagreements on asset distribution. However, with thoughtful planning and guidance, you …