Pages
The importance of living wills for singles
Tess Vigeland Nov 14, 2012
The passing of a loved one creates obvious emotional crisis for a family. But it can also fuel a financial crisis -- especially if there's no will.
Scant detail in big banks' 'living wills'
Heidi N. Moore Nov 14, 2012
The nine biggest banks in the U.S. have submitted plans for how to avoid a taxpayer bailout if they become insolvent. But will these plans work?
Planning for the end of life
Chris Farrell Jun 5, 2012
I am a 52-year-old single woman with no children. I have three older siblings and several nieces and nephews, although we are not particularly close (not estranged, just not close). This summer, my goal is to put in place basic end-of-life preparations like a will and a burial plan -- possibly long-term-care insurance as well. I learned from my parents' aging and deaths how much help the elderly can need, and how much stress and anxiety that can cause for those who love them. Can you give me some direction before I head to a lawyer? Julia, Omaha, NE
How military spouses hold down the home front
Tess Vigeland May 25, 2012
Military families have some unique financial challenges compared to civilians. But citizens can learn a thing or two from the foresight these families apply to their finances.
Will Writing 101
Chris Farrell Apr 6, 2012
I recall hearing about an intro book to wills and estate planning on one of the podcasts. Can you let me know the title or refer me to a good introductory book? I'm looking to put a will together soon for my new family. Thanks, Stacy, Norwalk, CT
Thinking about a living trust
Chris Farrell Apr 5, 2012
There are many DIY software programs for setting up living trusts. Do you recommend going that route vs. utilizing an estate planning lawyer who'll charge full-fee? What is a reasonable fee range for a certified estate planning lawyer to set up a living trust? I am married with three kids. We own a single family home and one rental property. We do not own a business. My wife and I have checking, IRA, Roth IRA and 529 accounts. Thanks, Derek, Stockton, CA
Getting Personal: Trashing your old tax documents
Sarah Gardner Mar 9, 2012
Host Sarah Gardner and MSN's Liz Weston answers your personal finance conundrums.
Putting your mind to it: The willpower instinct
Tess Vigeland Feb 24, 2012
Whether you want to lose weight or save money, you're gonna need the secret ingredient: willpower. Psychologist Kelly McGonigal discusses the art and science of self control.
Moving into an assisted living center
Chris Farrell Feb 21, 2012
Hello, I have and older aunt who is beginning to think about end-of-life issues and is planning to move into an assisted living community. She has no family nearby and is trying to do everything on her own, which is daunting. I want to guide her as she thinks about how to downsize her life and deal with her affairs in a way that makes sense for her. She doesn't have much in assets -- just a house that she financed with a HUD loan that she will have to sell before she can move. She is planning to hire a lawyer to get a will together, but I don't know if it will be worthwhile for her to spend the money to do that, given how little she has. Suzanne, Billings, MT
A family margin of safety
Chris Farrell Jan 12, 2012
My husband and I are late-in-life parents (he is 59 and I am 49) and we have a 1-year-old -- the absolute JOY of our lives. She is the only child for both of us and I am wondering about what you would suggest as the most cost-effective way to save for her future? Kathleen, Fergus Falls, MN
