If you want to give a big gift to charity, consider a charitable trust.

Take the following steps to help your family should you die or become incapacitated.

If you have children, you should choose a personal guardian -- someone to raise them in the unlikely event you can't.

Name the best person to direct your medical care if you are unable to do so yourself.

Not everyone needs life insurance. Find out whether or not you do.

Know when health care providers must follow your instructions for medical care -- and when they may not.

Your closest relatives may have a right to claim part of your estate.

Help your family -- and make your executor's job easier -- by getting your paperwork in order.

Just can't wait for your retirement funds? Painless advice on how to get your retirement money early.

Durable powers of attorney for finances -- a simple way to arrange for someone to handle your finances if you can't.

It's smart to make documents setting out your wishes for health care in case you are ever unable to speak for yourself.

Here's the lowdown on basic probate-avoiding living trusts.

Make sure your will reflects your current wishes and situation.

It's easy to arrange for someone to manage any property you leave to young children.

When it comes to choosing a life insurance policy, you may feel dazed by your options. Here are the basic types and the pros and cons of each.

Be sure you know what property is yours to leave or give away.

Making gifts during your life can provide you with tax savings and more.

Lower your beneficiaries' estate taxes by not owning your life insurance policy.

Couples can save a bundle on estate taxes with this kind of trust.

The estate tax will be fully repealed by 2010 but may come back in 2011.

What's involved in wrapping up an estate.

Tips on shopping for funeral goods and services.

Test your knowledge to see how much you know about taking your money out.

Life insurance may be a good source of income for your children if you die. Here's what you should know.

An overview of some important medical issues you'll face when preparing a living will and a power of attorney for health care.

Wills aren't the place to handle certain kinds of property or issues.