You have questions; we have answers. Our financial planning expert Dr. Don Taylor answers readers’ questions four days a week in his column, “Ask Dr. Don.”
Click on the links below to read some of the most frequently asked questions about all topics concerning estate and financial planning, and Dr. Don’s answers.
Estate-planning FAQs
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Daughter wonders who gets dad’s house
When there’s no will, it can be difficult to find a way, says Dr. Don Taylor. -
Sister’s death spurs search for accounts
Locating a deceased’s financial account information can be tricky when records aren’t available. -
Plan carefully when avoiding probate
A letter underscores the dangers that lurk when structuring your assets to avoid probate. -
Don’t make estate plan without help
Cobbling together an estate plan without professional help may not be wise, says Dr. Don Taylor. -
Beneficiaries avoid big tax bill
One common misconception is that the beneficiaries of an estate wind up with a big tax bill. -
2009 gift tax exclusion goes higher
Changes in the 2009 gift tax exclusion mean families can give more money to their children. -
Lottery rules impact estate planning
It’s important to know the rules surrounding lottery winnings when crafting an estate plan. -
‘Pot trust’ best for mother with cancer
A mom with terminal cancer should consider saving for her children’s education through a pot trust. -
Paying off mortgage not risk-free
Paying off a home mortgage can make sense, but it may not be as risk-free as it initially appears.
