Jun 11, 2025 by Brandywine
No parent wants to think about the possibility of not being there for their child. But part of being a responsible parent is preparing for the unexpected. If something were to happen to you, who would care for your child? Would they have the financial support they need? Estate planning for parents with minor children is more than just writing a will. It means putting legal structures in place to ... [Read More]
May 28, 2025 by Brandywine
Planning for the future involves more than just writing a will. For many people in Pennsylvania, a living trust offers added control, privacy, and flexibility. While not everyone needs one, it’s a tool worth considering—especially if you want to avoid probate, keep your affairs private, or make things easier for loved ones after you’re gone. A living trust is a legal arrangement that holds ownership of your assets while you’re ... [Read More]
May 21, 2025 by Brandywine
Blended families are common in Pennsylvania. Whether through remarriage, long-term partnerships, or cohabitation, more people are navigating life with stepchildren, half-siblings, and extended households. While these families often function with love and commitment, estate planning in this setting can raise unique questions. Traditional plans don’t always fit well when multiple sets of children and spouses are involved. If you have a blended family, taking time to address these challenges now ... [Read More]
Apr 30, 2025 by Brandywine
Life insurance is often viewed as a tool to provide financial support to loved ones after a death. While that’s true, its value goes well beyond replacing income. When used correctly, life insurance can be a key part of a well-designed estate plan. It can help cover debts, fund inheritances, manage taxes, and ensure your long-term wishes are carried out with fewer complications. If you’re planning your estate in Pennsylvania, ... [Read More]
Apr 23, 2025 by Brandywine
Divorce is a life-changing event that affects many aspects of your personal and financial life. One area that is often overlooked during a divorce is your estate plan. An estate plan is designed to ensure that your wishes are followed regarding your assets, health care decisions, and who will care for your dependents in the event that you can no longer make those decisions. However, a divorce can significantly impact ... [Read More]
Apr 9, 2025 by Brandywine
When putting together a will, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is who to appoint as the executor. This is the person responsible for handling your estate after you pass away. Their job includes tasks like paying your final bills, distributing assets, and making sure your instructions are followed. While many people focus on what they want to leave behind, it’s just as important to think about who ... [Read More]
Apr 2, 2025 by Brandywine
Many people believe that once they draft a will, their estate planning is complete. However, life is constantly changing, and an outdated will may not reflect your current wishes or circumstances. Reviewing and updating your will periodically ensures that your assets are distributed according to your intentions and that your loved ones are properly cared for. Life Changes Can Affect Your Estate Plan Major life events can significantly impact your ... [Read More]
Mar 26, 2025 by Brandywine
Legacy planning is about more than distributing assets. It’s an opportunity to leave a lasting impact, support causes you care about, and make a difference for future generations. Charitable trusts are one way to accomplish this, offering a way to combine philanthropy with strategic estate planning. For individuals and families in Pennsylvania, these trusts can provide financial benefits while supporting meaningful causes. If you’re considering ways to maximize your legacy, ... [Read More]
Mar 19, 2025 by Brandywine
Estate planning is no longer just about physical property and financial accounts. In today’s digital world, people own a wide range of online assets, from social media accounts and email to cryptocurrency and cloud storage. Without proper planning, these assets can become inaccessible or lost after death, causing complications for loved ones. For Pennsylvania residents, including digital assets in an estate plan can help ensure that online accounts, important files, ... [Read More]
Mar 12, 2025 by Brandywine
Making medical decisions can be difficult, especially in times of crisis. If you become unable to communicate your wishes, someone must step in to make choices on your behalf. In Pennsylvania, a healthcare proxy—also known as a healthcare agent—plays a vital role in ensuring your medical preferences are followed. Understanding how this works can help you plan ahead and protect your future. What a Healthcare Proxy Does A healthcare proxy ... [Read More]