Have you had this important family conversation?

Published: Mon, 06/02/25

Updated: Mon, 06/02/25

Estate Planning Is a Family Conversation—Not a Solo Task

Studies show that only 20% of couples make long-term financial decisions together. That’s a problem. When one spouse manages everything, it can leave the surviving partner feeling lost. The same happens for single households when adult children, siblings or others that will handle the estate also feel lost and don’t know where to start.

How We Can Help

We encourage and invite both spouses, family members or trusted friends into planning conversations.
We provide educational resources and tools (checklists, guides, and FAQs) to help you and your heirs understand your estate plan.
We share clear, real-world advice—not just legal or financial jargon.
We’ll explain and monitor how each decision fits not the larger financial plan.

Don’t Leave the Next Generation in the Dark
Many people are hesitant to bring children or other heirs into estate planning conversations. But keeping them informed now can prevent confusion, conflict, and legal trouble later. Recent changes from the IRS have changed and complicated many inherited accounts and understanding and planning prior, helps understand this.

Why It Matters
When your heirs understand your intentions—and know the advisors involved—they’re more likely to honor your wishes and maintain family unity.

How to Get Started

Consider holding a family meeting to share your estate plans.
Let Capstone help facilitate the discussion and explain the details.
Introduce your children or beneficiaries to your advisor and estate attorney.
Make sure everyone knows who will handle key responsibilities, like being a trustee or power of attorney.

Having these conversations early gives your loved ones confidence—and gives you peace of mind.

Make Sure Your Estate Plan Is Easy to Access and Understand
Having a plan is just the first step. You also need to make sure your family knows where to find it, and what to do when the time comes.

Simple Steps to Stay Organized

Create a clear, written estate plan with help from your advisor and attorney.
Keep copies of key documents in a secure, accessible place.
Share instructions with your spouse and key family members.
Update your plan after major life events—like a birth, death, marriage, or divorce.
The more organized you are, the easier it will be for your family to carry out your wishes.

Final Thoughts: Your Legacy Is More Than a Will
Estate planning isn’t just about passing on assets—it’s about passing on values, priorities, and peace of mind. By including your spouse, engaging your heirs, and working with the right professionals, you can avoid unnecessary stress and leave behind more than just money. You’ll leave behind clarity, unity, and a plan that truly reflects your wishes.

If we can help you start a conversation please call us today—your family will thank you for it tomorrow.

Market Update: Growing Optimism Heading into Summer

In the month of May, markets showed encouraging momentum despite a backdrop of mixed economic signals. The S&P 500 is on pace for its strongest monthly gain since 2023, driven by a resurgence in large-cap tech and easing inflation concerns. Investor sentiment improved mid-month following softer inflation data and continued strength in corporate earnings across several sectors.

Economically, the picture remains a bit more nuanced. First-quarter GDP data showed a modest contraction, primarily tied to inventory adjustments and slower consumer spending early in the year. However, consumer confidence rebounded in May, suggesting growing optimism heading into summer. The Federal Reserve has maintained its wait-and-see approach on interest rates, signaling a focus on stability amid ongoing uncertainty around global trade policy and growth. Overall, the market continues to reward resilience and long-term positioning.

Advisor Insight:
Given recent tariff concerns and improving global momentum, we’ve added selective international exposure to enhance diversification and capture new opportunities. We’ll continue to monitor market data and policy developments closely, making adjustments as needed to keep your portfolio aligned with your long-term goals.

Money Tips for New Grads

Graduating college is exciting but it can also be overwhelming—especially since most students receive little education in personal finance. A recent WalletHub study shows grads' top concern is joblessness, followed by student debt and credit card debt.

Here are few key money tips for new grads who are just entering the workforce:

1. Use the 50/30/20 budgeting rule:

• 50% for essentials (rent, debt, car payments)

• 30% for wants (dining out, travel)

• 20% for savings and investments (including a home or retirement)

2. Build an emergency fund to cover up to a year of expenses, if possible.

3. Take advantage of employer-sponsored savings plans like 401(k)s, especially if they offer matching contributions.

4. Know what you owe. New grads should be sure to fully understand their loan requirements, interest rates and monthly payment dates. Automate payments if possible.

If you don’t have a job yet, budgeting is even more crucial. With no income but ongoing bills, focus on finding low-cost short-term funding.

• Prioritize repaying student loans and credit card debt

• Live within your means to avoid digging a deeper financial hole

Feel free to give us a call if you need any help. We’re here to provide you with the structure and peace of mind you need as you or a family member makes the transition from college to the workforce.

Your Local Resource for Expert Financial Guidance and Support

Capstone built our reputation on friendly service, impeccable ethics, and respect for every client. Our clients’ needs drive our relationship, and the focus is always on you. We strive to be highly responsive to your requests and are skilled at creating solutions customized to your goals, values, and situation. Reach out anytime with questions. We're happy to help!

Capstone Investment Financial Group, LLC

Colorado Springs/Denver

719-477-9883

info@capstoneinvest.com

620 N Tejon St
Colorado Springs CO 80903
USA

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