Only 35% of Americans have a will. If you have a will, you’ve taken an important step to help ensure that your assets are distributed as you wish, but it’s also important to update your will regularly as circumstances change. If you don’t have a will, you’re risking unwanted outcomes and potential problems for your heirs. Although it’s natural to feel uncomfortable about estate planning, a will might make a big difference for those you love. Making Your Own Choices A will enables you to specify not only which assets you want to give and to whom, but also who you want to administer your estate. It may be the most appropriate way to designate guardians for minor children or for adult children with special needs. Any parent of children who need care should have a will, regardless of financial assets. If you die without a valid will, the state may decide how your assets will be distributed. Typically, assets would go to the spouse and children, but state laws vary widely, and there are different distribution formulas. When the deceased dies intestate and leaves no spouse or children, the situation becomes more complicated.

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Fifty-four percent of American workers have saved less than $25,000 for retirement, and 43% have saved less than $10,000.1 Source: (Employee Benefit Research Institute 2010) Will you outlive your retirement income? How much liability insurance should you have? Should you add stocks to your portfolio? Are your financial expectations for the coming year realistic? Our financial newsletters are designed to provide helpful information on a wide variety of financial topics. Simply click on one of the newsletter topics below to read the article in its entirety.

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