Our Blog - Surety Matters

Legal experts address the fears that hold many families back from putting estate plans in place, providing encouragement and information to help jump-start the effort. Remember, almost everyone has an estate and thoughtful planning, even…
Read Moreabout Estate Planning: Proceed!

  Yes! When a trust is created, the trustor (or grantor) names a trustee to administer the assets in accordance with their wishes. Trustees are fiduciaries—held to the highest duty of care in executing their…
Read Moreabout Are Trustees Fiduciaries?

  Alleging a variety of ERISA violations, the former participants of a KPMG 401(k) plan are suing the company—and the plan fiduciaries. The complaint has been filed in U.S. District Court in Newark, New Jersey,…
Read Moreabout ERISA Violations?

  Making guaranteed lifetime income options more readily available through 401(k) plans is a list topper for plan providers—and employers— these days. Here’s why—and an example of how Blackrock is proceeding.   Guaranteed Lifetime Income?…
Read Moreabout Decisions, Decisions: Annuities?

  The Federal Bureau of Investigation reports a 69% spike in cybercrime complaints from 2019-2020. Financial losses totaled over $4 billion. As the techniques deployed by cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated, retirement plan recordkeepers are…
Read Moreabout Cybercriminals: Sophisticated Techniques

Although ERISA does not require retirement plan committees, having the help of experts can contribute to decisions that are made prudently, in the best interests of participants and beneficiaries. Follow this expert guidance to ensure…
Read Moreabout Committee Agenda?

  Although it is often assumed that it is best to avoid the probate process when planning how to pass along our assets to loved ones, estate planners find that sometimes the probate process can…
Read Moreabout Probate Can Be Helpful

  Estimating that approximately 175,000 veterans need help obtaining bank accounts, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has launched the Veterans Benefits Banking Program (VBBP). The goal is to ensure veterans receive their full benefit…
Read Moreabout Direct Deposit Options for Veterans

  Trusts are sometimes a useful way to transfer assets to beneficiaries, or even to plan ahead for our own needs. Though most married couples opt for joint, Revocable Living Trusts (RLT), there are circumstances…
Read Moreabout Separate Revocable Living Trust?