Financial Planning

A simple will or joint ownership often leaves your carefully built legacy vulnerable to common, yet devastating, pitfalls — specifically, the four great threats: divorce, death, lawsuits and poor spending habits. ...

Estate planning is crucial for everyone, regardless of age or wealth, to protect your family, money, property, and wishes. Many common myths about estate planning can lead to significant problems. ...

Though you are likely in good health now and can handle your own financial transactions and health care decisions, there is always a chance you could lose that ability. A good estate plan includes documents that designate someone to make legal, financial and medical decisions if you can't. ...

Nearly 70 percent of older adults will require some form of long-term care, but many struggle to afford these services after covering housing costs. This createsc a dual financial burden; one that can't be easily solved, a recent study finds. ...

If you have money to give your children, you certainly can, but you should be aware that you may face consequences should you apply for Medicaid long-term care coverage within five years after each gift. ...

Many Americans nearing retirement age face a financial decision: Should they stop working entirely when they begin collecting Social Security benefits or continue to work? There is no one-size-fits-all answer. ...

More than essential legal tools, these documents can help you shape the life you want to lead as you age. The planning and thought involved in making and maintaining advance directives can give you a sense of autonomy and peace. ...

Are you dreaming of a brand-new kitchen or that spa-like bathroom you’ve always wanted? Home upgrades can seriously improve your quality of life while adding value to your home, especially in a market like Northeast Ohio, where property values are climbing steadily but remain affordable compared to the national average. However, renovations aren't cheap, so you need a clear plan for how you’re going to pay for them. ...