In Trusts We Trust: Controlling When Your Kids Get Your Money
You don't have to be a billionaire to worry about the risks of leaving your kids a large inheritance; having too much money too young can create its own problems.
Death
'Dear Mom, I Wish You'd Had Life Insurance'
Brittney Lacombe's mother died with only $300 in the bank. Unable to pay the bills, she and her sisters lost their house. Life insurance would have made things a lot easier.
Green Funerals: 3 Ways to Help Save the Earth as You Leave It
A green lifestyle doesn't have to end when your life does. With a bit of planning, you can save on your funeral and reduce your last environmental impact at the same time.
New Year, Same Beneficiaries? Here's Why You Need to Review
If you haven't checked the beneficiary designations on your financial accounts lately, you really should. It's quick, easy, and though it may not sound all that important, getting it squared away now could make a huge difference to your family later.
Is This Company Prepared for the Worst? (Probably Not)
Every investor should be asking their portfolio companies what succession plans they have to replace their CEOs in the event of a tragedy like that which befell Micron Technology CEO Steve Appleton last week. Because unfortunately, many companies don't have any plan at all.
Ruling on Cigarette Warnings Stirs Free Speech Debate
A court ruling Monday stubbed out an FDA attempt to plaster extremely graphic warning labels on cigarette packs. The decision has reignited a debate over which right trumps which: The right of the government to warn Americans about the health risks of smoking, or the First Amendment rights of tobacco companies.
The 7 Deadly Hobbies: Pastimes Your Insurer Hates
Some people take fun to the extreme, engaging in pastimes that put their health -- and even their lives -- at risk. Insurance companies refer to such activities as "hazardous vocations," and charge higher premiums to those who engage in them. One way or another, these hobbies will cost you.
Can Your Financial 'Plan B' Withstand the Unexpected?
Having a plan in case of a major life crisis is important and, according to State Farm's Financial Plan B survey, 81% of us know it. But only 45% of those surveyed said they've actually planned ahead for that crisis. If you have a plan, it may not be a solid as you think. And if you don't, here's how to begin creating one.
The 10 Most Expensive Hurricanes in U.S. History
At times, 2011 has felt like a parade of natural disasters: Earthquakes and tornadoes and floods, oh my! But wait, there are more coming. Hurricane season has just begun, and the forecasts for 2011 aren't pretty. Before the next one hits, we look back at the nation's 10 costliest hurricanes.
Plan Now to Avoid an Inheritance Feud Later
Infighting among heirs is on the rise, thanks to the weak economy, the increase in blended families and a host of other factors. Probably the biggest is simply poor planning. Life is complicated enough, so don't bequeath a battle to your family. Here's some straight talk about a touchy topic.
BP's Oil Well Near Death, But Disaster Not Over
The impending death of BP's blown-out oil well will bring one piece of the catastrophe that began five months ago to an anticlimactic end. But it is an important milestone for the still-weary residents of the Gulf Coast.
