A contingent beneficiary is a backup beneficiary who inherits assets if the primary beneficiary is unable to, for example, if they predecease you or are unable to accept the inheritance. You likely need a contingent beneficiary to ensure your assets are distributed as intended, even if your primary beneficiary can't receive them.  19 Mar

What is a Contingent (or Secondary) Beneficiary?

In estate planning, a beneficiary designation is the act of naming the person or entity who will inherit specific assets, like life insurance proceeds or retirement account balances, upon your death, bypassing the probate process.  18 Mar

Beneficiary Designations: Bypassing the Probate Process

Everything You Need To Know About Probate in Canada | While it’s not you who handles probate—rather, it’s your executor who handles it after you pass away—it’s important to understand why having a will makes probate easier. 17 Jan

Everything You Need To Know About Probate in Canada

Demystifying Estate Planning Terminology: A Glossary of Essential Terms You Need to Know 10 Jan

Demystifying Estate Planning: A Glossary of Essential Terms

Glossary of Legal Terms Used in Probate: England & Wales 02 Jan

Glossary of Legal Terms Used in Probate: England & Wales

Trustee vs. Executor: Understanding the Difference and Why You Need Both | If you’re like most people, you’ll need both— the executor to oversee the execution of your will and a trustee to manage and administer your trust. 25 Dec

Trustee vs. Executor: What is The Difference & Why You Need Both

Understanding the Differences Between Succession and Inheritance 13 Nov

Understanding the Differences Between Succession and Inheritance

Careful use of wills, trusts, or both can ensure that assets and possessions are distributed as intended. Making an estate plan a priority can save time, money, and help loved ones avoid potential financial hardship and conflicts. 13 Nov

Wills Versus Trusts: Definitions & Key Differences

Ontario Executors: Glossary of Terms | Are you stuck trying to understand some of the terms you run across as an Ontario Executor? No need to Google them. Here's an "A to Z" list —in plain English— to help. These Ontario Executor Terms Keep You Out of Hot Water.  23 Sep

Ontario Executors: Comprehensive Glossary of Terms

Having the Correct Power of Attorney is Crucial: Understand the Different Types 06 Aug

Having the Correct POA is Crucial: Understand the Different Types

From primary and contingent beneficiary designations to revocable and individual beneficiary designations... Understanding these designations is crucial in ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. 18 Jul

Understanding the Different Types of Beneficiary Designations

A holographic will is a handwritten and testator-signed document and is an alternative to a will produced by a lawyer. Being of sound mind is a crucial provision in determining the validity of a holographic will. Some states do not recognize holographic wills. 08 Jul

Holographic Will: Definition and State Requirements