A comprehensive estate plan often includes writing a last will and testament to transfer your assets to your beneficiaries. Once you’ve passed away, the executor of your will shepherds the will ...

I have frequently written about letters of intent as a means for parents of disabled children to pass on information regarding their instructions if the parent dies. See “Parents of Disabled Children ...

While most adults know they should have a will or trust, few realize they also should have a companion document known as a letter of instruction. This letter can help organize their own finances, ease ...

‘DEAR ELEANOR,’ her kindly lawyer-cousin wrote; ‘I think, as we are on the subject of your will, that you may wish also to look through your letter of instructions. You gave it to me directly after ...

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was originally published in the June 2011 issue of Kiplinger's Retirement Report. To subscribe, click here. You think you have taken care of your heirs. Your estate plan is ...