Wills & Estate Planning

Wills & Estate Planning

What Is Power of Attorney, and Do I Need One?

Power of attorney can be helpful if ever you were to become incapacitated, to help account for your financial and medical wellbeing.

By Allison Kade

Wills & Estate Planning

Different Types of Power of Attorney (and Which Is Right for You)

There are a number of different types of POA, which vary according to how much control they grant the agent, how long they last and when they take effect.

By Jessica Sillers

Wills & Estate Planning

Are You Someone's Power of Attorney? Questions POA Agents Should Ask

If a family member names you as his or her POA agent, here are some things you’ll want to discuss beforehand.

By Allison Kade

Wills & Estate Planning

What Is a Last Will and Testament, and Who Needs One?

A last will and testament is one of those things you probably don’t want to think about on a random Sunday at the park, and one you’ll be so glad you did.

By Allison Kade

Wills & Estate Planning

How to Make Your Last Will and Testament Legally Binding in Each State

Each state has its own requirements for what makes a last will and testament legally binding. We'll break it down for you, state by state.

By Allison Kade

Wills & Estate Planning

Last Will and Testament: Frequently Asked Questions

By Allison Kade

Wills & Estate Planning

What a Will Doesn't Cover: Pets, Funeral Arrangements, Digital Assets and More

We'll explain some of the things a will doesn't cover and special situations to be alert for.

By Allison Kade

Wills & Estate Planning

How Much Do Will Executors Get Paid in Each State?

Executors of a will may be entitled to payment for their work. This state-by-state guide breaks down what you can expect, wherever you are in the United States.

By Jessica Sillers

Wills & Estate Planning

What Is a Trust Fund and How Does It Work?

Trust funds aren’t only for the very wealthy. Here's how they work, how to set one up and why you might want to consider having one.

By Cari Wira Dineen

Wills & Estate Planning

One Action That Makes Life Insurance and Estate Planning so Much Easier

Creating an “in case of death” doc can save loved ones time, frustration and maybe even money. Here’s how to do it right.

By Lynn Shattuck

Wills & Estate Planning

Last Will and Testament: Step-by-Step Guide for Writing a Will (With Sample Will)

Here's how to write a simple will. Check out what you should know about making your last will and testament, and how to make it legally binding.

By Kaycie Tyll

Wills & Estate Planning

What’s the Difference Between a Godparent and a Legal Guardian?

As you’re thinking about your estate planning, it’s important to understand the distinction between a godparent and a legal guardian.

By Sarah Li Cain

Wills & Estate Planning

A Pet Trust? Your Will? How to Care for Your Pet After You’re Gone

We may view our pets like family, but legally we can’t leave money directly to them. Here’s how to take care of Fido after you’re gone.

By Wendy Berkowitz

Wills & Estate Planning

What You Should Know About Bequeathing to Charity in Your Will

Whether you call it a bequest, an endowment, a legacy, or simply a gift, leaving something behind to charity can be meaningful.

By Jessica Sillers

Wills & Estate Planning

Do I Need a Lawyer to Make My Will?

Digital access to resources and online tools mean it’s easier than ever to write your own will online. But should you?

By Jacqui Kenyon