SML Planning Minute

Why would you ever choose NOT to accept an inheritance? There are a few good reasons. And it’s doable if you decide that’s what you want.

Being named as an estate executor is often considered an honor, and you will be compensated for your efforts. But is it worth all the potential trouble?

If your income goes up over time, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you'll be able to save more. If you’re not careful, “lifestyle creep” can make things worse. Here are a few ideas on how to fight back against lifestyle creep.

Being named as an estate executor is often considered an honor, and you will be compensated for your efforts. But is it worth all the potential trouble?

The concept of a wealth tax—applying a tax to the value of someone’s assets—has become popular in some state legislatures in the last few years. Are they likely to catch on anytime soon?

Divorced spouses may be caught unaware that they could be eligible for a Social Security benefit based on their ex’s work history. The rules are complicated, but if you’re in that situation, there may be a pleasant surprise waiting for you: collecting a Social Security benefit you didn’t even know existed.

A recent survey by LIMRA presented a jarring statistic: young adults believe that the cost of a life insurance policy is 10 to 12 times higher than it really is. The truth is that, for young people, the security and peace of mind a life insurance policy may provide may be a lot more affordable than you think.

The IRS has published its annual “Dirty Dozen” list for 2026. As always, scammers keep coming up with new tricks to snare unsuspecting taxpayers. It’s best to know what you’re up against!

Trump Accounts were just signed into law last July, and they are undeniably popular. Are they worth looking into?

There are many American citizens who will spend an extended period outside the United States. What happens to your estate if you die while residing in a foreign country? It’s complicated. Planning is essential.