Curious about the ways we impact the lives of our clients? Check out some publications we’ve appeared in, including The New York Times, The Financial Planning Association, and many other reputable newspapers, magazines and online publications. For more publications and videos on estate planning, business planning, and general financial planning, visit our Insights page.

Final Steps After the Loss of a Loved One

The “Financial Steps After The Loss of a Loved One” article from the Journal of Financial Planning provides a comprehensive checklist for families dealing with the loss of a loved one. While the legal and financial processes following a death can be complex and overwhelming, this resource offers practical guidance to help families navigate these challenges during a difficult time. It emphasizes the importance of preparation and communication, urging business owners and individuals to create a detailed plan that addresses immediate needs, financial responsibilities, and the preservation of assets. From locating important documents to notifying relevant parties and making informed decisions, this checklist serves as a roadmap for families to ensure a smoother transition and minimize potential complications.

Navigating The Logistics of Death Ahead Of Time

The “Navigating the Logistics of Death Ahead of Time” publication discusses the rise of online platforms and tools designed to help individuals with end-of-life planning. It shares the personal story of Everplans co-founder Abby Schneiderman, whose brother’s unexpected death underscored the importance of having a plan in place. The article explores several platforms, including Everplans, Principled Heart, and AfterSteps, highlighting their features and functionalities, such as document storage, digital asset management, and guidance through the planning process. It also touches on the security concerns associated with storing sensitive information online, emphasizing the need for trust in the chosen platform and suggesting the importance of legal fiduciary responsibility. The article concludes by acknowledging traditional methods like physical folders and workbooks, but stresses that regardless of the chosen method, having a plan and communicating it to loved ones is crucial.

Planning Implications Of New Legislation For Digital Assets

The “Planning Implications of New Legislation for Digital Assets” article from the Journal of Financial Planning delves into the complexities of managing digital assets after death, highlighting the importance of the Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act (UFADAA). It explains how this legislation grants legal access to digital assets for fiduciaries, enabling them to manage online accounts and fulfill their duties. The article also explores the challenges posed by varying terms of service agreements and privacy laws, emphasizing the need for individuals to document their digital assets and communicate their wishes to loved ones. By addressing these considerations, business owners can ensure the seamless transfer of their digital legacy and protect their assets in the event of their passing.

Navigating the Logistics Of Death Ahead Of Time

The “Navigating the Logistics of Death Ahead of Time” publication explores the growing trend of online platforms designed to assist with end-of-life planning, highlighting several key services like Everplans, Principled Heart, and AfterSteps. It discusses how these platforms offer a centralized repository for essential documents, financial information, and personal wishes, simplifying the process for both individuals and their families. The piece emphasizes the importance of organizing vital information, including digital assets, passwords, and instructions, in a secure and accessible manner. By providing a structured approach to end-of-life planning, these digital tools empower business owners to proactively prepare for the future and ensure a smooth transition for their loved ones.

Don’t Let Your Digital Assets Die With You

The “Don’t Let Your Digital Assets Die With You” article emphasizes the growing importance of incorporating digital assets into estate plans. It highlights the distinction between traditional assets and digital assets, focusing on the unique challenges posed by online accounts, usernames, passwords, and terms of service agreements. The piece stresses the need for explicit consent and authorization for fiduciaries to access digital information, recommending the creation of specific legal documents like digital asset authorization forms and durable powers of attorney. It also suggests practical steps such as creating a digital asset inventory, using password management services, and familiarizing oneself with platform-specific legacy features. The article underscores the potential financial and sentimental value of digital assets, as well as the importance of protecting privacy and simplifying the process for loved ones. Finally, it touches on the developing legal landscape, mentioning the Revised Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act (RUFADAA) as a positive step towards granting fiduciaries greater access to and control over digital estates.

…Create Uniform National Rule For Fiduciaries To Access Digital Assets

The “…Uniform National Rule for Fiduciaries…” publication discusses the debate surrounding legislation for accessing digital assets after death. It highlights the conflict between the Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act (UFADAA), which grants fiduciaries broad access to digital accounts, and the Privacy Expectation Afterlife and Choices Act (PEAC), which offers more limited access, focusing on “outside the envelope” information like timestamps and sender/recipient details without revealing message content. The article emphasizes the growing importance of addressing digital assets in estate planning due to the increasing amount of information stored electronically. It notes the challenges posed by varying state laws and company-specific terms of service, as well as the need for proactive planning by individuals and financial advisors, regardless of pending legislation. The piece concludes with a call for increased awareness and action on digital estate planning, emphasizing the importance of working with clients and attorneys to clearly define how digital assets should be managed after death.

Alternative Income Options

In this 20-minute YouTube interview with Business Talk Library, William Bissett discusses Alternative Income options with host Terrell Turner.

Financial Advisers Aren’t Just For The Rich

The “Financial Advisors Aren’t Just for the Rich” publication challenges the misconception that financial advisors are only for the wealthy. It argues that middle-income individuals and families can benefit from professional financial guidance, especially in areas like debt management and retirement planning. The piece highlights the importance of creating a comprehensive financial plan, regardless of portfolio size, and emphasizes the value of working with a financial advisor to map out financial priorities and achieve specific goals. It also addresses the burden of debt, suggesting that specialized advisors like Certified FICO Professionals can help individuals improve their credit scores and manage debt. The article concludes with advice on choosing a financial advisor, advocating for fee-only fiduciaries who are legally obligated to act in their clients’ best interests. It also outlines different compensation structures, empowering individuals to choose the type of advisor and fee arrangement that best suits their needs and financial situation.

Plan Ahead To Protect Your Digital Legacy

The “Plan Ahead to Protect Your Digital Legacy” article highlights the increasing importance of planning for the management of digital assets after death. It emphasizes the challenges faced by families in accessing online accounts and information due to the proliferation of usernames, passwords, and varying terms of service agreements. The piece underscores the need for individuals to document their digital accounts and communicate their wishes to loved ones, ensuring that important information, memories, and financial assets are not lost or inaccessible. It also discusses the potential impact of outdated legislation and the efforts to update laws through initiatives like the Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act (FADAA), which aims to grant heirs legal access to digital accounts. The article concludes with a call to action, urging individuals to take proactive steps in documenting their digital assets and planning for their digital legacy.

Helping Financial Planning Clients With Their Digital Estate Planning

The “Helping Financial Planning Clients With Their Digital Estate Planning” publication explores the complexities of managing digital assets in estate planning. It highlights the increasing number of online accounts, passwords, and digital information that individuals accumulate, emphasizing the challenges faced by families in accessing and managing these assets after death or incapacitation. The piece discusses various issues, including password sharing, the legal landscape surrounding digital assets, and the limitations of current legislation. It also provides practical guidance for advisors and clients, suggesting the creation of a comprehensive digital asset inventory and outlining the importance of documenting online accounts and their significance. The article concludes by emphasizing the role of financial planners in guiding clients through these challenges and facilitating discussions around digital estate planning, ultimately helping to ease stress for families during difficult times.