Resources - US Legal Services

Are legal plans worth it? A practical decision framework and legal plan cost analysis

May 20, 2026

A speeding ticket that turns into traffic court. A landlord who won’t return your deposit. A will you keep meaning to get around to. A debt collector calling your phone. An identity theft mess that eats your weekends. Those are moments, not policies, and that’s where legal costs and stress show up fast. If you’re deciding whether to enroll this year, this post covers what these plans actually do in day-to-day situations, when they tend to make sense, and how to think about the cost. What a legal plan is in plain English A legal plan is a membership that helps you get access to an attorney for common legal needs, often through an employer as a voluntary benefit (or available directly for individuals and families). In practice, you have a legal issue or a “does this seem right?” question, you contact the plan (portal, app, or phone), and you’re matched with a network attorney or guided to the next step. For covered services, the plan helps handle attorney fees so you’re not starting from scratch paying full hourly rates. With U.S. Legal Services, the model is attorney access with support, not a template site. You typically start through the

Financial Stress In 2025: 4 Insights You Need To See

April 9, 2025

Recent findings on employee stress have provided valuable insights that can help companies refine their benefits programs. The Employee Benefit Research Institute’s (EBRI) 2024 Workplace Wellness Survey, which gathered responses from over 1,500 American workers, uncovered emerging trends that could shape workplace wellness strategies in the coming years. At the core of employee concerns is financial security. Workers are eager to improve their financial well-being, whether by saving for retirement, reducing debt or handling unexpected expenses. One common thread remains — many employees expect their employers to play an active role in offering financial education and support. Below are four main takeaways from the EBRI survey and how they can inform your company’s wellness initiatives. Retirement savings is a primary concern for employees When asked how they would allocate an extra $600 across financial accounts, the majority of employees indicated they would prioritize their retirement savings. A well-funded retirement account not only helps employees secure their future but also contributes to overall peace of mind. However, the survey also found that nearly 20% of respondents had tapped into their retirement funds to cover emergency expenses. Without a dedicated emergency savings account, employees may dip into their long-term savings, adding to

5 Breakthrough Benefits Trends to Try Out in 2025

April 4, 2025

With 2024 behind us, HR professionals are examining their benefits for the year ahead. Financial uncertainty marked most of 2024, leading to a shift in employee priorities. So, to meet transforming demands, employers may need to adapt their benefits. One common theme emerging from this year’s insights is personalization. Employees want benefits to address specific challenges. That may mean things like building retirement savings or managing unexpected medical costs. This year, Retirement plans and paid leave are in high demand. Financial wellness also continues to be a top priority. Here are the most important benefits your company needs to stand out to top talent in 2025. 1. Embrace financial wellness to support overall well-being Financial stress remains a concern for employees across industries, income brackets and generations. The stress is due to many factors, including an increased cost of living . According to CNBC, rising expenses have made major financial milestones. Retiring, buying a home or car and getting married may be unattainable for many Americans. Financial wellness programs can help employees reduce their stress and improve productivity. These programs offer personalized support and resources. Employees at every stage of life and income can meet their needs. Roughly 70% of

Build Your Best Estate Plan Yet With Help From Best Money Moves

October 10, 2024

A 2024 survey conducted by Ameriprise Financial shows that over 50% of participating couples did not have an estate plan in place. And there’s a good chance you may have neglected your estate plan, too. You don’t have to let legal complexities and a pile of paperwork stand between you and a financial legacy you can be proud of. Best Money Moves is here to help you begin your estate planning journey. We’ll start by breaking down a core concept in estate planning: What’s the difference between wills and trusts? How they work: ● Wills name a third-party executor to file your estate’s taxes, settle your estate’s debts and distribute your assets to beneficiaries according to your instructions. ● Trusts appoint a third-party called a trustee to manage the trust’s assets and distribute them to beneficiaries according to its terms. When they take effect: ● Wills activate only after death. ● Trusts can be established while you’re still living. When they involve the probate court: ● Wills pass through a legal process known as probate. ● Trusts avoid the probate process altogether. Who may benefit: ● Wills benefit the majority of people, even those with simple, no-frills estates. ● Trusts

Commercial Drivers and Identity Theft

October 10, 2024

For commercial truck drivers, identity theft can have significant implications for their Motor Vehicle Record (MVR), which is crucial for their careers. Here’s how identity theft specifically impacts truck drivers and their MVRs: MVR Overview The MVR is a record of a driver’s driving history, including traffic violations, accidents, and any suspensions or revocations of their driving privileges. It is often checked by employers and insurance companies. Impact of Identity Theft on MVR False Violations: If a thief obtains a truck driver’s personal information, they could potentially impersonate the driver and commit traffic violations or even serious offenses (like DUI). These violations could then appear on the original driver’s MVR, affecting their driving record. Accidents: Identity thieves could also cause accidents under the driver’s name, leading to further negative entries on the MVR. Increased Insurance Rates: A tarnished MVR due to fraudulent activities can result in higher insurance premiums for the truck driver, impacting their financial stability. Legal and Employment Consequences Employment Opportunities: Many trucking companies conduct background checks that include MVR reviews. A compromised record with false violations could jeopardize a driver’s employment opportunities or lead to termination. Legal Issues: If a driver is unaware that their identity has

Understanding Rising Insurance Premiums for Natural Disasters and How to Maximize Your Claims

October 10, 2024

In recent years, the frequency and intensity of natural disasters have increased, prompting a significant rise in insurance premiums. Homeowners, renters, and business owners alike are feeling the impact of these escalating costs. As insurance companies adjust their rates to account for the greater risk of claims from events such as hurricanes, floods, and wildfires, understanding how to navigate this landscape has never been more critical. Why are your insurance premiums higher than ever and how do you ensure your claim is paid timely and properly? Why Are Insurance Premiums on the Rise? 1. Increased Frequency of Natural Disasters Natural disasters have become more frequent due to climate change, leading to more claims filed by policyholders. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the United States has experienced an increase in severe weather events over the last few decades. This growing trend leads insurers to raise premiums to cover the increased risk. 2. Higher Cost of Repairs and Replacements The cost of materials and labor has risen significantly over the years. When disasters strike, the demand for construction materials and skilled labor surges, driving prices even higher. Insurance companies must account for these increased costs in their

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Financial Stress In 2025: 4 Insights You Need To See

5 Breakthrough Benefits Trends to Try Out in 2025

Build Your Best Estate Plan Yet With Help From Best Money Moves

Commercial Drivers and Identity Theft

Understanding Rising Insurance Premiums for Natural Disasters and How to Maximize Your Claims