You may assume your will controls everything you leave behind. But an old beneficiary form could send money to someone you no longer want to receive it. That mistake could reduce the support you meant to leave your family. In Minnesota, these forms usually control...
Estate Planning
Estate planning for pet owners: who will care for your animals
For many, pets are more than companions; they are an important part of the family and help to bring comfort, routine and joy to everyday life. Thinking about their future care is an important step that often gets overlooked during long-term planning. Life can be...
Do most people have a will?
Making a will is well-known to be something every adult should do. So you might assume that most of them have already ticked off this task. Unfortunately, that is not the case. According to the 2026 results of Trust & Will’s annual estate planning report, only 26%...
Does your Minnesota plan account for state estate tax?
When you create an estate plan, you may focus on who receives your property and who will manage your affairs. However, state rules can also affect how much your family receives after your death. Understanding Minnesota’s filing threshold Minnesota has its own estate...
What should you know when choosing an estate representative?
Choosing a personal representative is one of the most important parts of your estate plan. This individual will be responsible for managing your affairs and ensuring your final wishes are honored. Before finalizing your estate, there are important factors to consider....
What is a financial power of attorney?
There are many things that you have to consider when you’re creating an estate plan. While many people focus on who is going to receive which assets, you also need to think about what is going to happen if you’re unable to make decisions for yourself because of...
Are your adult children going to inherit your debts?
You are making your estate plan, and you still have certain debts. Maybe you are planning to take care of some of them. You may want to set aside a fund to pay off your mortgage in the event of an unexpected passing, for example, or to take care of your credit card...
Could a Totten trust solve your estate-planning problems?
Most estate planners want to spare their beneficiaries and heirs the delay of having a will go through probate. They prefer to structure their estate plan so that the intended loved ones can access their inheritance easily. Trusts are handy vehicles for those doing...
The hidden risks of an outdated estate plan
When was the last time you reviewed your estate plans? If it’s been more than a few years, you might be sitting on a ticking time bomb. An outdated estate plan can cause chaos for your loved ones, cost you money and leave your legacy in shambles. Here’s what could go...
4 reasons to talk to your kids about your estate plan
You might think that your estate plan is something you can keep to yourself. Perhaps you do not like discussing the subject of death or fear you’ll upset your children if you discuss plans for your passing. Or maybe you feel that broaching the subject could cause your...


