10 Simple Steps For Your Estate Executor’s Duties During the Probate Process Family Tree Estate Planning has created this helpful infographic and document explaining the 10 simple steps to help your Estate Executor’s duties throughout the Probate process. Here’s a PDF version of the Estate Executor’s Duties:
What You Should Know Before Hiring a Tax Attorney or a CPA via @UpCounsel Blog
What You Should Know Before Hiring a Tax Attorney or a CPA This article was originally published on UpCounsel. I see or talk to my CPA about once a week. That may seem a little extreme, but it’s because he’s brilliant, he gives great advice, and because he’s also my dad. Many […]
What to Do If Your Business Is Selected for a Tax Audit via @UpCounsel Blog
What to Do If Your Business Is Selected for a Tax Audit This article was originally published on UpCounsel. By UpCounsel Business Attorney Leah Jacobs Don’t Panic This is my first bit of advice to anyone who has a business selected for a tax audit. Whether you are a small business CEO or a […]
What Does the New Tax Bill Mean for C-Corporations? via @UpCounsel Blog
What Does the New Tax Bill Mean for C-Corporations? This article was originally published on UpCounsel. By UpCounsel Business Attorney Ramsey Taylor Startup founders often have a lot of questions, but one of the most common is whether they should set up a C-Corporation for their new business. Alternatives usually considered are the […]
Tax Business Plan Template: Everything You Need to Know via @UpCounsel Blog
Tax Business Plan Template: Everything You Need to Know This article was originally published on UpCounsel. Its a strategy for all aspects of your business. It is a necessity for those looking to start a tax preparation or tax consulting business.3 min read A tax business plan template is a strategy for all […]
What is a Contract? Everything You Need to Know via @UpCounsel Blog
What is a Contract? Everything You Need to Know This article was originally published on UpCounsel. What is a contract? Contracts are a part of our everyday world. A contract might include a simple transaction at the local store.3 min read What is a contract? Contracts are a part of our everyday world. […]
Type of Corporations for Small Business via @UpCounsel Blog
Type of Corporations for Small Business This article was originally published on UpCounsel. There are five types of corporations for small business to select from. They include sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, C corporation, and S corporation.3 min read There are five types of corporations for small business to select from. They include sole […]
How to Hire a Great Business Lawyer? via @UpCounsel Blog
How to Hire a Great Business Lawyer? Written by Arleen Atienza This article was originally published on UpCounsel. A good foundation is crucial in starting any business and one of the pillars that keep a business stout and upright is a great business lawyer. As a business owner, you want to allot your […]
Online Estate Planning: How To Make a Will For Your Digital Life – via @AZCentral
Online Estate Planning: How To Make a Will For Your Digital Life This article was originally published on AZCentral. Big-name websites and companies can track your activities to deliver targeted advertising and build up an astonishingly detailed profile. Question: Do you have suggestions for creating a digital will? Answer: Estate planning is one of […]
Asked: When is a good time to create a living trust? via @AZCentral
This article originally appeared on AZCentral.com – Please access the original article by clicking HERE. At what point in your life should a trust be established? Is it based on what you have such as money, stocks or tangible assets? Is wealth an issue? Answer: Arizona Republic personal finance writer, Russ Wiles, explains the ins […]
Upon Death, Are Business Assets Subject to Probate? via @AZCentral
This article originally appeared on AZCentral.com – Please access the original article by clicking HERE. Question from Anne in Prescott: My father recently passed away. His only asset of any value was his small manufacturing business Corporation. Is his business subject to probate? Answer: Anne, to answer your question I need to briefly answer a […]
Introduction to Probate – via @AZCentral
This article originally appeared on AZCentral.com – Please access the original article by clicking HERE. Motley Fool: Introduction to Probate When we die, our assets often go into probate. It’s important to understand the probate process to help in your estate planning. Probate is the legal process of administering an estate once someone dies, and […]
How To Avoid the Cost and Headaches of Probate Court – via @AZCentral
This article originally appeared on AZCentral.com – Please access the original article by clicking HERE. Staying out of probate court can save you thousands of dollars, time and frustration. In Maricopa County, there are about 22,000 probate cases a year, and the caseload has steadily increased in recent years. The term “probate” refers to the […]
What is probate court, and how can you avoid it? via @AZCentral
This article originally appeared on AZCentral.com – Please access the original article by clicking HERE. What is probate court, and how can you avoid it? Many people want to avoid probate court if they can because they don’t want to deal with the frustrations and cost of it. What can you do to avoid it?
Women and pain: Disparities in experience and treatment
In August, The New York Times published a guest op-ed by a man named David Roberts who suffered from severe chronic pain for many years before finally finding relief. The piece immediately went viral, with distinguished news journalist and personality Dan Rather posting it to his Facebook page with the addendum that it could “offer […]
How to Plan for the Unforeseen
The financial effects of unexpected events like death or illness can be blunted or controlled with some preparation, advisers say. Source: NYTimes How to Plan for the Unforeseen
A doctor’s recipe for a healthy breakfast
When I look at the typical breakfast food offerings at many restaurants, supermarkets, and food trucks, and I think about the health of our nation, I want to cry. Muffins, bagels, donuts, pancakes, waffles, French toast sticks… Want some bacon, sausage, or fried potatoes with that, ma’am? Then there’s what marketing tells you is a […]
America's Top Restaurants Announced
The Michelin stars, however, are the coveted prize. They will be unveiled this month on separate days for each city, perpetuating the drama that surrounds them in the industry. San Francisco’s stars will be announced Oct. 12; Washington’s, Oct. 17; Chicago’s, Oct. 20; and New York’s, Oct. 30. The guidebooks will be available in print […]
Social Security Numbers Could Be Replaced
Joyce’s remarks came a month after Equifax hackers gained access to the Social Security numbers and birth dates of more than 145 million Americans. He said the Social Security number has “outlived its usefulness,” according to the Hill newspaper. “It’s a flawed system that we can’t roll back after a breach.” Another problem, he said, is that once a […]
The secret to happiness? Here’s some advice from the longest-running study on happiness
I have always considered myself a happy person, even though I may not always look it thanks to inheriting my father’s furrowed brow. Are there times when I’m not happy? Of course. Do I wish I could be happier more often? Who wouldn’t? While it seems everyone is looking for the answer to the age-old […]
FTC Advises Consumers to Block Suspicious Robocalls
“Which app works for you might depend on your phone’s operating system,” FTC consumer education specialist Alesha Hernandez advised in an article on the agency’s website. “Before you consider downloading any app, think about the call protection that you need and do your research.” She referred consumers to the CTIA, a trade association that has a comprehensive list […]
Survey Says Greenville, S.C., Has The Country's Smartest Spenders
Jon Lovette/Getty Images A recent study ranked the South Carolina city tops among places in America where residents are best at living within their means. The residents of Greenville, S.C., are the best among America’s metro areas at keeping their spending within their means, according to a new study by online loan marketplace LendingTree. The […]
Why you can’t get a song out of your head and what to do about it
“Earworms” are unwanted catchy tunes that repeat in your head. These relentless tunes play in a loop in up to 98% of people in the western world. For two-thirds of people they are neutral to positive, but the remaining third find it disturbing or annoying when these songs wriggle their way into the brain’s memory […]
Retirement Planning Tips at Age 50
So where do you begin? There are several formulas. In a recent Yahoo Finance article, David Rae, a certified financial planner, suggested this: “Add up all of your life savings — your 401(k), your investments, the money under the mattress — and then divide that by 25. Could you live on that amount comfortably for […]
Fees For Getting Cash From An ATM Keep Rising
Bankrate.com surveyed the 10 biggest banks in the top 25 metro areas in the U.S. The most expensive city in which to make an out-of-network withdrawal is Pittsburgh, where the average transaction will set you back $5.19. The cheapest place to withdraw cash among the 25 biggest metro areas? Dallas, where a transaction costs you […]
Why parents should use responsive feeding with their babies
Follow me on Twitter @drClaire The habits we learn early can stay with us for a lifetime — which is why it’s better to learn good habits early, not bad ones. This is especially true with eating habits. More and more, research shows that overweight babies grow into overweight children, who grow into overweight adults. […]
Mower Mishaps Among Strange Insurance Claims
Amino, a health care start-up that gathers data from insurance claims, culled these and many other unusual happenings from the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th Revised Edition. Medical providers must determine a code for reimbursement purposes, and the publication lists every diagnosis for a medical condition and the corresponding code. It covers […]
The mysterious rise in knee osteoarthritis
Follow me on Twitter @RobShmerling While there are more than 100 types of arthritis, osteoarthritis is by far the most common. Osteoarthritis is the form of joint disease that’s often called “wear-and-tear” or “age-related,” although it’s more complicated than that. While it tends to affect older adults, it is not a matter of “wearing out” […]
Should You Use a Credit Card or Debit Card
Though debit and credit cards look virtually identical, they aren’t. A debit card is essentially a check. As soon as you use it at a retailer, the funds are gone from your checking account and you have spent your own money. When you buy something on a credit card, you are spending someone else’s money […]
A better way to be rich and happy – AARP The Magazine
Among their savings secrets: Live cell-phone free (“It’s a quality-of-life issue, too”), wear your clothing until it’s truly worn (“It’s like losing a friend when we consign a shirt to the rag bin”), and save twice the amount needed for a major purchase before you buy it (“It lets you make sure you really want […]
Time to rethink the debate on PSA testing
For most of us, whether to screen for cancer is a no-brainer. Who wouldn’t want a simple test to prevent cancer or identify it at an earlier, more treatable stage? However, as with many things, the screening decision is more complex than it may appear. For example, the test may not be particularly “simple,” such […]
Super Saver Tips, Budget Travel Tips
If you travel much on your own — as Evelyn Hannon has since her divorce 30-some years ago — it’s crucial to find ways to save. The blogger, called by some the grandmother of women’s travel, is founder of Journeywoman.com, which seeks to inspire women to explore the world. Although she’s reached a point where […]
Imposter Scams: IRS Scams, Online Dating Scams, Military Scams
Welcome to what experts call the illusion of invulnerability — the belief that frauds happen to others but not you. Overconfidence in your ability to spot bad guys is a dangerous thing. Impostor fraud is among the fastest-growing scam types precisely because so many of us think we are immune to it. To help, here […]
Diabetes: Adding lifestyle changes to medication can deliver a knockout punch
Plenty of research supports the common-sense notion that a healthy lifestyle can prevent or treat many diseases. A diet high in fruits, veggies, whole grains, and plant protein and low in processed carbs, added sugars, saturated fats; regular physical activity; and emotional well-being are the potent treatments that can prevent the need for or even […]
Some Caribbean Islands Unscarred After Hurricanes
Laura Plaze, 60, a regular visitor to St. John from Alexandria, Va., was stunned by post-Irma videos of her time-share unit. “You cannot believe it,” she says. “Every tree is broken, with leaves shorn off. The swimming pool is a mud bucket.” She is worried she may not be able to return even as late as […]
Quick Ways to Get Money: Coupons App, Claim Lost Money
2. Split your paycheck If you direct deposit your paycheck into a checking account, change to a split deposit, which will send a small amount to a savings, vacation or emergency fund. It’s worth it: Research shows that people save an extra $1,080 a year when they use divided deposits. If your company doesn’t offer […]
Flu shots during pregnancy
Is your head already spinning from all of the confusing information about the safety of routine vaccinations? Well, news of the latest findings regarding the flu vaccine during pregnancy certainly won’t help things. A group of researchers recently reported an association between a pregnant woman getting the flu vaccine and having a miscarriage. The authors […]
Vacation Planner, Travel Planning, Tips & Savings – AARP
‘My Digital Travel for Seniors’ Learn how to use computers, smartphones, or tablets to plan travel, manage your itinerary, and save money Source: AARP Travel Vacation Planner, Travel Planning, Tips & Savings – AARP
Homeowners Rush to Get Reverse Mortgages
“Our industry is currently inundated,” Julie Martinez, a housing counselor at the nonprofit agency HomeStrong USA, told the Register. “We have an enormous influx of calls and requests for appointments that’s unprecedented.” Reverse mortgages give 62-and-older owners a chance to make use of the equity in their homes to get cash to pay bills. Officials at […]
Traits of Scam Victims: Industriousness, Curiosity, Geniality
Industriousness Knowing you’re a diligent worker, scammers send out most malware-containing emails and mobile scams early in the business day, when you’re busiest or most distracted. The flow spikes right around lunchtime. Advice: Slow down. “Think before clicking on a link — especially during high activity times such as the upcoming holidays,” suggests Gary Davis […]
What is a Fixed-Index Annuity?
You buy the annuity with a lump sum, which goes into the insurer’s general fund. You are credited with a tax-deferred return that’s linked to the market — for example, to Standard & Poor’s index of 500 stocks. If the S&P rises over 12 months, you receive some of the gain. For example, your credits […]
Venmo vs. Zelle: Which is Better?
Venmo vs. Zelle The Platform Venmo: Operates through the Venmo app you download to your mobile device. Zelle: Operates through apps of participating banks and credit unions. How it Works Venmo: Transferring is easiest if both parties are on the app. You can “request” or “pay” other users and add a note or emoji as the […]
Top Ten Cheapest Cities to Retire in America
Birmingham hit the No. 1 spot with its low health care and transportation costs and large inventory of affordable housing. Here are the poll’s top 10 least expensive cities, with annual individual costs across the five categories. 1. Birmingham, Ala.: $33,219 2. Detroit: $33,356 3. Jackson, Miss.: $33,676 4. Memphis, Tenn.: $33,859 5. Toledo, Ohio: […]
4 ways to help your child get enough sleep
Follow me on Twitter @drClaire Children need sleep, plain and simple. We all do. Without enough sleep, we get cranky and, with time, unhealthy. But for children, it’s especially important because the effects of sleep deprivation can lead to lifelong problems. Studies have shown that not getting enough sleep can contribute to obesity. But even […]
Piano History and Piano Removal, Reminiscing on a Steinway
Then the piano migrated to our home. Our two sons took lessons on it, too. When tuners would visit, they would end their work by playing a little Chopin or Bach, no doubt a calculated reminder of what a glorious musical instrument it is — a fact not well revealed by an 8-year-old begrudgingly learning […]
Social Security Numbers May Be Removed From Future W-2s
Employers are required to submit by Jan. 31 a W-2 statement spelling out the wages and tax withholdings for each taxpayer in the prior year. The proposed rules would allow, but not require, employers to truncate the Social Security numbers on W-2s. For decades, federal agencies, taxpayers and consumers have been stricken with widespread identity […]
Consumer Protection: Avoiding Scams, Fraud and Bad Deals
Close You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Got it! Please don’t show me this again for 90 days. Source: AARP Money Consumer Protection: Avoiding Scams, Fraud and Bad Deals
Elderly Scams: Medicare Fraud, Social Security Scams
As a result, scammers stole tens of billions of dollars last year from older Americans and the programs that serve them. Medicare fraud alone is estimated at $60 billion annually. In July of this year, 412 people were busted by federal investigators in health care fraud schemes that netted $1.3 billion. So who are these […]
The latest scoop on the health benefits of coffee
Follow me on Twitter @RobShmerling What a difference a few years can make. Not long ago, I was learning about the dangers of coffee — how it could raise your blood pressure, make your heart race, impair sleep, and maybe even cause cancer. Now, the World Health Organization (WHO) is taking coffee off the possible […]
Why Scammers Love Social Media
Mark “would text me all the time, it was very flattering. He said he was a churchgoing man. And his story was really believable,” said Joan, embarrassed to disclose her real name and how little she actually knew about him. Scammers have long used the internet to target people with their phony sweepstakes and hard […]
Leaky gut: What is it, and what does it mean for you?
Before the medical community had better understanding of the mechanisms that cause disease, doctors believed certain ailments could originate from imbalances in the stomach. This was called hypochondriasis. (In Ancient Greek, hypochondrium refers to the upper part of the abdomen, the region between the breastbone and the navel.) This concept was rejected as science evolved […]
Best Time to Buy Cheap Thanksgiving Plane Tickets
If you wait until the last minute (zero to six days out), you’re likely to shell out more than 20 percent over the average ticket price. “Timing is a big factor in getting a good deal on airfare,” Sarah Gavin, vice president of global communications at Expedia, said in a statement. “People typically know pretty […]
Vacation Ideas and Places to Go – Tours, Trips to Plan- AARP
Avis & Budget Members save up to 25% off base rates, plus get a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability). Grand European Travel Members save $100 per person on guided vacations and river cruises, plus receive a free gift. Hilton Hotels Members save up to 10% off the best […]
Top Green and Environmental Cities for Tourism
In a survey released Tuesday, RewardExpert, a company that helps travelers maximize their mileage and points for travel, looked at 53 top destinations to see which one takes the prize as the greenest big city in the U.S. To make the determination, no plane trips were required. Data was gathered from the U.S. Census Bureau, Alliance […]
Loans Offered by SBA for Hurricane Victims
There are a number of types of relief available from the agency: physical business loans to repair or replace disaster-damaged property; economic injury loans to help small businesses meet ordinary and necessary financial obligations; and home business loans to repair or replace disaster-damage real estate and personal property. Loans for physical businesses and economic injury […]
Men (back) at work
My father was ecstatic when he retired from the US Postal Service after 30 years. But it didn’t take long before he began to miss the packlike male bonding he took for granted: group lunches, team projects, water cooler banter. When they were gone, it left a big hole in his life. “Men acquire friends […]
What parents should know about tattoos
Follow me on Twitter @drClaire These days, tattoos are increasingly common. According to a 2015 Harris poll, three in 10 American adults have a tattoo — up from two in 10 in 2012. They are particularly popular in young people; among Millennials, nearly half have a tattoo. In most states, you have to be at […]
Indoor Water Parks to Visit During Fall and Winter – AARP
Age doesn’t matter at Splash Lagoon. From spinning in the new Aqua Tumble to floating down the lazy river, there is plenty to do at this waterpark in Erie, Pa. Splash Lagoon has nine water slides, a wave pool, rope courses and much more. And to prove it’s a park for all ages, there’s Paradise Cove, a secluded whirlpool for adults […]
Midwest Cities to Visit – Heartland Vacations
A city is never all about one neighborhood, but an old German area in Cincinnati called Over-the-Rhine has managed to turn this town around — encouraging investment and drawing new residents to its gentrified coolness. OTR, as locals call it, is now a vibrant, carefully cultivated 319-acre mix of condos, apartments, restaurants, bars and shops, […]
Why does hair turn gray?
Follow me on Twitter @RobShmerling If you look at photos of President Obama taken before he ran for president and since he left office, you’ll notice a distinct difference: where there used to be only dark brown hair, there is now far more gray than brown. It seems that the stress of running a country […]
Is There An Echo In Here? What You Need To Consider About Privacy Protection
An “Echo Dot” device, left, and an “Echo” device stand on display during the U.K. launch event for the Amazon.com Inc. Echo voice-controlled home assistant speaker in London, U.K., on Wednesday, Sept. 14, 2016. The Seattle-based company today announced that its Echo product line will be available in the U.K. and Germany starting in the […]
Road Trip Planner – How to Prepare for a Long Drive – AARP
Avis & Budget Members save up to 25% off base rates, plus get a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability). Grand European Travel Members save $100 per person on guided vacations and river cruises, plus receive a free gift. Hilton Hotels Members save up to 10% off the best […]
Cruise Trips and Tips – Ships, Tips, Trips, Cruise Lines, Safety, Tours
Avis & Budget Members save up to 25% off base rates, plus get a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability). Grand European Travel Members save $100 per person on guided vacations and river cruises, plus receive a free gift. Hilton Hotels Members save up to 10% off the best […]
Romantic Getaways, Trips and Vacations – AARP
Avis & Budget Members save up to 25% off base rates, plus get a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability). Grand European Travel Members save $100 per person on guided vacations and river cruises, plus receive a free gift. Hilton Hotels Members save up to 10% off the best […]
Travel Tips, Vacation Planning and Advice for the 50-Plus Traveler …
Avis & Budget Members save up to 25% off base rates, plus get a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability). Grand European Travel Members save $100 per person on guided vacations and river cruises, plus receive a free gift. Hilton Hotels Members save up to 10% off the best […]
IRS Extends Tax Relief to Hurricane Irma Victims
The announcement applies to Floridians in Alachua, Baker, Brevard, Broward, Charlotte, Citrus, Clay, Collier, Columbia, DeSoto, Duval, Flagler, Gilchrist, Glades, Hardee, Hendry, Hernando, Highlands, Hillsborough, Indian River, Lake, Lee, Levy, Manatee, Marion, Martin, Miami-Dade, Monroe, Nassau, Okeechobee, Orange, Osceola, Palm Beach, Pasco, Pinellas, Polk, Putnam, Sarasota, Seminole, St. Johns, St. Lucie, Sumter, Suwannee, Union and […]
Living On a Budget and Tips to Save Money – AARP
Close You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Got it! Please don’t show me this again for 90 days. Source: AARP Money Living On a Budget and Tips to Save […]
Saving and Investing – Mutual Funds, Stocks, Bonds & Investment …
Close You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Got it! Please don’t show me this again for 90 days. Source: AARP Money Saving and Investing – Mutual Funds, Stocks, Bonds […]
Budget Travel – How to Save on Hotels, Flights, Cruises – AARP
Avis & Budget Members save up to 25% off base rates, plus get a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability). Grand European Travel Members save $100 per person on guided vacations and river cruises, plus receive a free gift. Hilton Hotels Members save up to 10% off the best […]
Credit, Personal Loans & Debt Relief – Reverse Mortgage, Credit …
Close You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Got it! Please don’t show me this again for 90 days. Source: AARP Money Credit, Personal Loans & Debt Relief – Reverse […]
Tax News – Tax Credits, IRS Policies, State & Federal Taxes, Filing …
Close You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Got it! Please don’t show me this again for 90 days. Source: AARP Money Tax News – Tax Credits, IRS Policies, State […]
A blog post on blog posts: Fact, fiction, and friction
A blog by definition is a regularly updated website or web page, typically one run by an individual or group, and is written in an informal or conversational style. As with any conversation, there is usually a blend of fact and opinion. In the case of a blog on medical topics, frequently the opinions are […]
Scam Alert: Anti-Aging Snake Oil, Lawsuits, Wrinkles – AARP Bulletin
But even if Harry’s Supreme Formula HGH and Youthful Vigor HGH actually contained human growth hormone, consider this bit of knowledge: When taken in pill form—and not injected—real HGH is degraded by enzymes in the intestines before it can reach the bloodstream, rendering it useless, says Marc R. Blackman, M.D., of the National Center for […]
Financial Impact of Florida Keys Shutting Down
The storm and subsequent closings are, of course, a massive blow to the area’s $2.7 billion tourism industry; the island chain is typically abuzz with visitors snorkeling, fishing and dolphin-spotting. Hotels are reimbursing visitors who’ve already paid for rooms, according to Ashley Serrate, a representative from the Keys’ Tourism Development Council. The businesses here have […]
Feeling okay about feeling bad is good for your mental health
When you have a negative emotion, are you upset or disappointed in yourself? Do you feel “bad” or “guilty” about this emotion? If so, you may be at risk for poorer longer-term psychological health. A study in the July 2017 Journal of Personality and Social Psychology looked at the psychological health of people who accept, […]
Options to Repair Damaged Homes After Hurricanes
This assistance can be especially important for those who lacked flood insurance when the disaster struck. A poll by the Insurance Information Institute found that only 12 percent of U.S. homeowners had a flood insurance policy in 2016, down 2 percent from the previous year. Homeowners and renters who hold standard insurance policies are covered […]
Cruise Lines Re-Routes Ships West After Hurricane Irma
Some lines have been diverting ships to deliver relief supplies to the most-devastated areas. Meanwhile, the big lines, such as Carnival, Disney and Norwegian, are “rejiggering their schedules,” says Chris Gray Faust, senior editor at CruiseCritic.com. One alternative to sailing the eastern Caribbean is to move upcoming sailings westward. While hugely popular cruise destinations in those eastern […]
How To Avoid Storm-Related Scams and Fraud
“Cybercriminals are opportunists and, sadly, events like Harvey and Irma are prime examples of their preying on humanity’s empathy and trust,’’ says Zack Allen, manager of threat operations at security consultant ZeroFox. “People all over the world quickly rushed to their social media accounts to find the best avenues to donate to victims, but these […]
Equifax Data Breach – 143 Million U.S. Consumers Affected
Equifax is one of three major consumer credit-reporting agencies, with data on more than 820 million consumers and 81 million businesses worldwide. “Given the kind of data, the potential for financial fraud, and identity theft is quite high,’’ said cybersecurity expert Mark Nunnikhoven of security software firm Trend Micro. Equifax has created a website (equifaxsecurity2017.com) where consumers can […]
Wells Fargo Finds More Suspicious Accounts
The company said it is taking steps to make amends and already has paid more than $3.7 million in refunds and credits to customers who’ve gone through the bank’s complaint and mediation process. Victims may receive additional compensation from a $142 million class-action settlement, which was approved by a judge in July. Over the next […]
Helping Women Over 50 Face Their Financial Fears
After hearing too many stories of women who had ignored their finances until they became widows, a publicist and an insurance executive decided to get them talking about it. Source: NYTimes Helping Women Over 50 Face Their Financial Fears
Protect Social Security Number, Avoid Identity Theft
Leave it Home. Never carry your Social Security card — what if your wallet or purse is stolen? The same goes for your Medicare card (which includes your Social), unless you’re seeing a health care provider for the first time. If you like the security of having an ID on you, carry a photocopy of […]
Forecast for Fall Foliage Promises Beautiful Views
“It’s the most optimistic forecast I’ve had in a couple of years,” Jim Salge, who tracks annual autumn foliage for Yankee Magazine, told the Associated Press. “The biggest thing that can go wrong with foliage is a really wet couple of weeks leading up. We’ll really need that typical fall weather in New England — warm, […]
Orlando and Naples Ranked Amongst Best Cities to Retire
WalletHub also provided rankings on factors important to older Americans. Plano, Texas, for example, has the highest percentage of older people in its workforce, while Los Angeles offers the highest share of recreational and senior centers. Laredo, Texas, has the lowest cost for home health services. In its rankings, SmartAsset focused on a narrower range […]
Amazon Slated to Cut Prices on Whole Foods Groceries – AARP
Other foods that are now cheaper: avocados, kale, baby lettuce, tilapia, almond butter, organic eggs and rotisserie chicken. And the company announced that the cost of more items will be cut soon. Amazon plans to offer the Whole Foods Organic 365 line of generic brand products — along with Whole Paws pet products — through […]
Impostor Scam Tells Victims They Won the Sweepstakes – AARP
“This is just a scheme using the well-known names of Make-A-Wish and the FTC to rob thousands of dollars from people,” the FTC warns on its website. “Once you wire money or send banking information, you will never see your money again.” The agency provides these tips to protect yourself: “If someone asks you to […]
$1M in Retirement Savings Lasts 20+ Years in Mississippi
The spread was significant: According to the study, $1 million will run out in less than a dozen years in Hawaii (which has extremely high food and housing costs) but will last more than 26 years in Mississippi (which, not unexpectedly, has exactly the opposite situation). The gap between Hawaii and the second-most-expensive state (California) […]
Places to Visit – Best Vacation Spots, Travel Destinations – AARP
Avis & Budget Members save up to 25% off base rates, plus get a free upgrade on compact through full-size car class bookings (based on availability). Grand European Travel Members save $100 per person on guided vacations and river cruises, plus receive a free gift. Hilton Hotels Members save up to 10% off the best […]
Car Rental Deals for Trips Down South – AARP
A number of rental car companies have dropped some one-way East Coast rentals to as little as $5 per day. There are some additional fees and taxes, but it’s still a good deal. During a quick search, we found Hertz, Thrifty and Dollar all running specials for weeks in the fall. For example, a three-day rental from Portland, Maine, to […]
States Mandating Access to Retirement Savings Plans
But there is a hitch: These attempts are likely to be challenged in court for allegedly violating federal pension laws. According to the Journal, Oregon and other states are hiring lawyers to declare that their plans don’t hold the employer liable if something goes wrong and employees sue. Some experts say the courts may ultimately […]
New Scam Mimics National Institutes of Health
NIH does dispense grant money to researchers who apply for it to serve a public purpose. But Uncle Sam does not call people out of the blue to give them grants, and the money isn’t for personal use, officials say. “If you get a call like this from someone asking you to pay money to […]
10 Facts About the History of Social Security Benefits
In honor of its 82nd anniversary, here are 10 interesting facts about Social Security. (Sign a birthday card to help keep the program strong.) 1. When Social Security legislation was approved in 1935, the minimum monthly benefit was $10 and the maximum was $85. Average monthly benefit check in 2017: $1,323, or about $15,881 a year. For […]
Five Key Questions To Ask When Creating Law Firm Equity Agreements
Successful chief legal execs & law firm partners share legal insights Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Post written by Doug Bend Doug Bend is the Managing Partner at Bend Law Group, PC, a law firm focused on advising small business owners. Shutterstock </div> </div> <p><span>When drafting an equity agreement, partners need to […]
FTC Partners With Phone Carriers to Block Robo-Calls – AARP
Complaints about the calls have been pouring into the FTC — so much so that they are the No. 1 complaint the agency receives. The FTC plans to process your complaint within one business day and immediately turn over information you gathered from the caller to phone carriers and other industry partners. As part of the partnership, the […]
5 Ways to Save on Estate Planning Costs
Estate plans aren’t cheap. But exactly how much you’ll spend depends on a multitude of factors — the complexity of your overall needs, the experience of the attorney involved, and your geographic location, since costs can vary greatly across various regions. This article was written by Tracy Craig, columnist for Money, and was originally published on […]
Iceland Vacation Ideas – Destinations to Visit in Ireland – AARP
Vacation Deals Members save up to $570 on vacation packages at the AARP® Travel Center Powered by Expedia®. Liberty Travel Members receive discounts on select vacation packages and assistance from travel agents. Hotel Discounts Members save at Best Western, Hilton Hotels, La Quinta, Wyndham and more. Source: AARP Travel Iceland Vacation Ideas – Destinations to […]
What to Expect at the Taste of West Cork Food Festival – AARP
The festival, which runs this year from Sept. 8 to 17, is increasingly known as a must-do for foodies, yet it’s also an opportunity for any visitor to dive into local culture in a unique (and tasty) way. Events are spread out through eight islands and 33 towns and villages. They include walking tours and street […]
Employers Slash Retirement Benefits Spending
The retirement cost cuts came as employers shifted from defined benefit retirement plans to defined contribution plans such as 401(k)s. “Beyond the overall increase, there has been a seismic shift that can be characterized as a tale of two benefit programs,” John Bremen, managing director of human capital and benefits for Willis Towers Watson, said […]
Debunking the Top 5 Retire-Myths – Kiplinger
This Kiplinger article was written by Ali Swofford, PhD, CLU, ChFC, President of Swofford Financial in May 2017. You can find Ali’s Kiplinger bio here. Read the full article here. Your ideas on what your life will be like in retirement, how you’ll pay for it, when it will come and how much you’ll spend once […]
Cooking Classes and Cuisine Tours Around the World – AARP
“Today’s travelers are experiential,” says Erik Wolf, executive director of the World Food Travel Association, a nonprofit educational organization whose community of food-focused travel professionals numbers 48,000, according to Wolf — up from 18,000 in 2013. “People want to get out of the bus or the car and actively participate and learn and do.” Epitourean, a Colorado-based […]
Social Security COLA Projected to Rise 2 Percent
It would be the largest increase since 2012, when the COLA rose 3.6 percent. Social Security recipients received no cost-of-living adjustment in 2016 and just 0.3 percent in 2017. If the trustees’ projections are correct, on average, beneficiaries would receive an additional $28 a month. The Medicare Part B standard monthly premium is expected to […]
Total Solar Eclipse Viewing Tips, Where to See Eclipse – AARP
Homestead National Monument, Neb. (eclipse: 1:02 Central Time) Bill Nye the Science Guy leads the cheers on eclipse day at Homestead, which is about 50 miles south of Lincoln. Visitors can make pinhole viewers to safely watch the partial phases of the eclipse. NASA scientists will talk about subjects like space exploration and astronaut training, and another […]
Midwest States Best for Adults Near Retirement Age
The top-ranked state is Nebraska, which scored A ratings in financial issues and community quality of life, though it pulled C’s in health care, employment and housing. Runner-up Michigan scored B’s in financial issues and health care, and C’s in the rest. The remainder of the top 10, in order: Minnesota, South Dakota, Wyoming, Tennessee, […]
8% of Multi-Employer Pension Plans At Risk of Defaulting
Rich worked from 2013 to 2016 for the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corp. (PBGC), the federal agency that insures pension plans. He predicted problems in particular for multiemployer plans, in which employers in unionized industries contribute to a single plan. Rich said he expected that close to 8 percent of those plans will default over the […]
Guard Against These 3 Non-Financial Retirement Risks
Point of View: Giving Too Much Money To Adult Children Christine Benz offers ways to deal with excessive giving to adult children, long-term care expenses, and cognitive decline. The Long Term Care Insurance starts in Video from 2:40 to 4:50. By Christine Benz and Jeremy Glaser of Morningstar.com | 07-05-2017 01:00 PM Read Full Article HERE […]
2 Essential Paths to a Secure Retirement
Our interactive guide helps you see into your financial future. If you stay on the green path as you move down the page, congratulations, your retirement plan is sound! If you find yourself on the red path, don’t worry — there’s still hope! Just follow the tips in the guide and at aarp.org/retirement to get you back […]
Probate: What You Should Know To Plan Ahead – AARP
This article was published by AARP & New York Life | Original article available here. You may have heard stories about the complexities and confusions after someone passes away: unforeseen costs, delayed access to funds, legal battles with loved ones. But with proper planning and organization, you can ensure that your estate is well protected […]
The Top Mistakes Of Selling A Business And How To Avoid Them
Successful chief legal execs & law firm partners share legal insights Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Post written by Doug Bend Doug is the founder of Bend Law Group, PC, a law firm focused on advising small businesses and startups. Shutterstock </div> </div> <p>If done correctly, selling your business, just like selling […]
More Boomers Aging in Place, Not Retiring in the South
The study, by Washington, D.C.-based real estate research firm CoStar Group, looked at data from 17 major real estate markets. CoStar found that over the past seven years, 80 percent of people 55 and older who’ve moved to another home stayed within their county or state. As a result, a rising number of boomer retirees […]
Ace Your Retirement With New Digital Coaching Tools, Resources …
“Retirement planning can sometimes leave people anxious, confused or even paralyzed,” said Debra Whitman, AARP executive vice president and chief public policy officer. “This campaign will break down retirement savings into easy, actionable steps for all Americans.” AceYourRetirement.org features a digital retirement coach named Avo, a chatbot that will ask the user questions about their […]
Is Text Messaging The Next Frontier In Marketing For The Legal Industry?
Chair of Stevens & Lee’s Energy, Communications and Public Utility Group and creator of The Connection College. Shutterstock </div> </div> <p>Attorneys are now using SMS (short message service) to communicate with clients and prospects. Before you start thinking that lawyers are on the cusp of a cutting-edge communications style, let me remind you that SMS is […]
Cryptocurrencies As Legitimate Asset Protection Tools
Shutterstock Despite some misconceptions, using bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies for asset protection in connection with offshore planning may be an effective strategy. A crucial facet to using foreign trusts to protect wealth is ensuring that the trustee and trust assets remain outside of any jurisdiction where the grantor might be sued. Some U.S. states may […]
The Emotional Side of Retirement Planning – Kiplinger
This Kiplinger article was written in May 2017 byBarbara Shapiro, President of HMS Financial Group. You can find Barbara’s Kiplinger bio here. Read the full article here. Forget finances, you’ll never be ready to retire unless you’ve thought through exactly what you want your next chapter to be like. Historically, people retired when they reached […]
How the Wealthy Talk to Their Children About Money
Some children don’t want to hear about it, and others want to know more than their parents would like to divulge. Source: NYTimes How the Wealthy Talk to Their Children About Money
Here’s Why You Need An Estate Plan
Great video resource from the Wall Street Journal & MarketWatch on the reasons why an estate plan is so critical to your family’s essential needs. Originally posted on July 13th, 2016, here is what Andrea Coombes, a columnist for MarketWatch reports on getting your estate plans in order. Do You Have An Estate Plan? You […]
How to Develop Your Estate Plan
Christine Benz, Director of Personal Finance on Morningstar.com discusses how choosing an attorney, designating helpful individuals, and drafting documents now can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones. By Christine Benz of Morningstar.com | 05-17-2017 04:00 PM Read Full Article HERE Video Transcript: Christine Benz: Hi, I’m Christine Benz for Morningstar.com. Estate planning […]
How to Guard Against Retirement Threats
Christine Benz, Director of Personal Finance on Morningstar.com discusses how job loss, the death of a spouse, and divorce can derail retirement, but a sound financial plan can help, says Baird’s Tim Steffen. By Christine Benz on Morningstar.com | 05-04-2017 11:00 AM Video Transcript: Christine Benz: Hi, I’m Christine Benz for Morningstar.com. As retirement approaches, even the […]
Wills Can Avert Family Warfare, but Have Their Own Hidden Traps
Without a clear, updated estate plan, there can be chaos after an accident or a death. Here’s how to avoid common problems. Source: NYTimes Wills Can Avert Family Warfare, but Have Their Own Hidden Traps
Tax & Estate Planning Checklist
We are thrilled to help you prepare for that extremely important task of gathering information for your first Estate Planning consultation. Family Tree Planning offers a FREE service in all of Arizona, call (602) 795-8000 to schedule an initial consultation with one of our expert Estate Planning Consultants. Here are a few helpful tips that you […]
The Myth Of Using Cryptocurrencies For Asset Protection
The Great Recession of the mid-2000s forced us to view economics, banking, wealth and security in new ways. The concept of asset protection, already a growing area, saw an explosion in popularity, which has given rise to an ever-evolving cat and mouse game between creditors and debtors and their respective advisors. Meanwhile, distrust in banks […]
Five Ways Lawyers Can Add Value To Their Client Relationships
Successful chief legal execs & law firm partners share legal insights Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Post written by Forbes Legal Council Experienced chief legal officers & law firm partners from Forbes Legal Council offer firsthand insights on legal issues. From top left to right: Doug Bend, Joshua Lenon, Lawrence Buckfire, Linda […]
Four Negotiation Tactics Leaders (And Lawyers) Can Use To Their Advantage
Successful chief legal execs & law firm partners share legal insights Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Post written by Forbes Legal Council Experienced chief legal officers & law firm partners from Forbes Legal Council offer firsthand insights on legal issues. From top left to right: Matthew Digesti, Peter Minton, James Goodnow, Anthony […]
Five Reasons A Legal Expert Should Be Reviewing Your Business Documents
As a business owner, it’s easy to want to sign off on every last document that comes across your desk. But scanning through contracts and agreements that affect your own business could cause you to have a narrow view — focusing too much on the little details and not enough on the important details. Below, […]
Filing A Large-Loss Insurance Claim? Six Things You Can Expect From Your Attorney
Bringing his expertise to the practice of residential, church and commercial insurance law in the Houston area. The Voss Law Firm, P.C. <p><strong>2. They’ll be your guide through the process. </strong>When you hire an attorney to help you with your claim, he or she should be there to answer all of your questions, provide you with […]
Six Of The Top Pitfalls Of Buying A Business And How To Avoid Them
Doug Bend is the founder of Bend Law Group, a law firm focused on advising small businesses and startups. <p><strong>3. Research the company’s financial history. </strong></p> <p>Have a CPA "kick the financial tires" of the business to make sure the purchase price is supported by the company’s revenue and expenses. A solid CPA can not only help you determine […]
Why You Should Get Around to Drawing Up a Will
Many Americans don’t have wills, but should. You can do it yourself online, but consulting a lawyer is often a safer bet. Source: NYTimes Why You Should Get Around to Drawing Up a Will
Five Steps You Can Take Now To Protect Your Company's Trademark
Successful chief legal execs & law firm partners share legal insights Opinions expressed by Forbes Contributors are their own. Post written by Forbes Legal Council Experienced chief legal officers & law firm partners from Forbes Legal Council offer firsthand insights on legal issues. From top left to right: David Nied, Brian Igel, Victor Cardona, Doug […]
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