A will is a set of written directions to a probate judge explaining how the decedent would like the probate process to progress. It indicates whom the decedent wants to manage the estate and to whom he or she wants property distributed.

You may have known since birth (or before) that your child has special needs. Or you may have realized it later, when your child didn't sit up at an appropriate age, or had problems learning to read. Children who have special needs have a wide range of conditions, both mild and severe, including chronic illnesses, emotional issues, developmental delays, disabling physical conditions, and learning disabilities.

At a time when your career is reaching a peak and you are looking ahead to your own retirement, you may find yourself in the position of having to help your children with college expenses while at the same time looking after the needs of your aging parents. Squeezed in the middle, you've joined the ranks of the "sandwich generation." 

As the parent of a child with special needs, you face many of the same challenges that any parent faces. But you'll have to cope with some unique financial, medical, educational, and legal issues as well. 

But where do you start?

By presidential proclamation, November is National Family Caregivers Month. Caregiving can exact an emotional, physical, and financial toll. It is important for caregivers to know that their labors of love are appreciated, and to recognize that they need care and support as well.

A power of attorney (POA) is a document that designates an agent or attorney-in-fact to act on a person’s behalf regarding his or her financial affairs. Without a valid financial POA, a person’s loved ones would need to seek court approval for the authority to make any decisions involving the accounts.

A will is often the cornerstone of an estate plan. Here are five things you can do with a will.

It's human nature to put off complicated or emotionally heavy tasks. Talking with aging parents about their finances, health, and overall well-being might fall in this category. The best time to start is when your parents are relatively healthy.

If you are the adult child of aging parents, you may find yourself in the position of someday having to assist them with handling their finances. Whether that time is in the near future or sometime further down the road, there are some steps you can take now to make the process a bit easier.