Skip to Content
Grandparents with grandchildren symbolizing how planning your wills and estate can benefit the next generation.
Orange document with seal icon

Wills and estate planning

No matter how old you are, creating a will and estate planning are an important part of your financial picture. Use the content in this section to help you get started.
Latest in
Senior woman and younger woman sitting at desk in front of laptop looking at estate papers
Wills and estate planning

What is probate and the probate process

As you start thinking about your estate planning, you've got important decisions to consider and detail in a will. If you don't, your loved ones may find your estate stuck in the courts during the probate process. That may take months, if not years, to process.

Read more
Husband and wife smile at each other while they walk together along the beach
Wills and estate planning

What is a living trust and its types?

A living trust is similar to a last will and testament in the sense that you can direct how you want to distribute your assets, but there are a few key differences. Learn about them now.

Read more
Mom sitting on porch with adult daughter
Wills and estate planning

Why is a will important?

Without a will, disbursement of your estate will be administered by a designated state court according to those laws rather than your wishes.

Read more
An elderly man and his son sit together
Wills and estate planning

Medical power of attorney

There might come a time when you need someone to carry out your healthcare wishes on your behalf. Having your preferences and plans documented can alleviate some of the burden.

Read more
Young African American female comforts grieving woman at support group.
Wills and estate planning

How to cope with death

The death of a friend or family member can be so overwhelming for those left behind that it can have a long-term impact on their physical, emotional and mental health.

Read more
Senior woman sorting through mail.
Wills and estate planning

What to do after a loved one dies

Whether it's a spouse or parent, there is no easy way to handle the passing of a loved one.

Read more
A woman and two daughters huddled on a couch together staring into the distance.
Wills and estate planning

What you need to know about writing your own will

If you have limited assets, only one or two beneficiaries and no major tax issues, you may want to write your own will. If you are considering it, here are some tips.

Read more