When One Social Security Check Disappears: What Retired Couples Need to Plan For
Many couples plan carefully for retirement together but overlook the financial realities of retirement alone. Learn how survivor Social Security benefits, taxes, healthcare costs, and estate planning can impact a surviving spouse.
What Happens to an HSA Account When Someone Passes Away?
Health Savings Accounts offer powerful tax benefits, but those benefits can change significantly after death. This article explains how HSAs are treated when inherited by a spouse, non-spouse, or estate. Learn key tax rules, planning strategies, and how to reduce the tax burden on beneficiaries. Proper beneficiary designation is critical to maximizing HSA value.
New Ways to Plan for Long-Term Care Costs: Self-Insure & Medicaid Trusts
Planning for long-term care is harder than ever as insurance premiums rise and availability shrinks. In 2025, families are turning to two main strategies: self-insuring with dedicated assets or using Medicaid trusts for protection and eligibility. This article breaks down how each option works, their pros and cons, and which approach fits your financial situation. Proactive planning today can help you protect assets, reduce risks, and secure peace of mind for retirement.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
Dying without a will means state laws decide who inherits your assets, not you. It also creates longer, more expensive probate and leaves guardianship decisions for your children up to a judge. This article explores the risks of dying intestate and how a simple will can protect your family.
A Financial Checklist for Surviving Spouses
Losing a spouse is overwhelming, and financial matters can add to the stress. Greenbush Financial Group provides a gentle, step-by-step checklist to help surviving spouses address immediate needs, manage estate matters, and plan for the future with confidence.
Understanding Per Stirpes Beneficiary Designations
“Per stirpes” is a common estate planning term that determines how assets pass to descendants if a beneficiary dies before you. Greenbush Financial Group explains how per stirpes works, compares it to non–per stirpes designations, and outlines why updating your beneficiary forms is critical for ensuring your wishes are honored.
Trust Roles Easily Explained: Grantor, Trustee, and Beneficiary
Trust Roles Explained Easily: Whether you're setting up a trust or are currently an interested party in a an existing trust, understanding who does what is essential.
Should You Put Your House in a Trust or Gift It?
Your home is one of the most valuable assets you'll pass on—but how you transfer it to the next generation can have major tax, legal, and financial consequences.
