As parents and educators, we all know how crucial it is to equip our children with practical skills that will serve them well in life. Financial literacy, in particular, is often overlooked but essential for building a secure future. To address this need, I’m thrilled to announce an upcoming financial literacy event for youth and teens, hosted by the Law Office of Dionna Reynolds, with the support of the BMO Celebrating Women Grant.

Why Financial Literacy for Youth?

Teaching young people about money early on helps them make smart decisions as they grow. Whether they’re saving their allowance or preparing for their first job, understanding money management is the foundation of financial independence.

This event will provide participants with hands-on, age-appropriate activities to make learning about money fun and engaging. The goal is to empower our youth with practical skills they can carry with them for a lifetime.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, December 28, 2024
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location: Beggars Pizza- 12700 Kedzie Ave, Blue Island, IL 60406

Lunch will be provided for all participants, so no need to worry about food—just bring an appetite for learning and pizza! 🍕

Registration required. 

Who Can Attend?

The event is designed for kids and teens in three age groups:

• Ages 7-9
• Ages 10-13
• Ages 14-18

Each group will have its own breakout session to ensure the activities are tailored to their level of understanding and interests.

Event Agenda

12:00 p.m. – 12:15 p.m.: Welcome and introductions, with some fun icebreakers to get everyone comfortable and ready to learn.
12:15 p.m. – 12:35 p.m.: Pizza break! Everyone can grab lunch and chat casually before diving into the workshops.
12:35 p.m. – 1:20 p.m.: Breakout sessions by age group. Each session will feature interactive money management activities, such as saving strategies, budgeting exercises, and even beginner investment tips for the older group.
1:20 p.m. – 1:50 p.m.: Group discussion. Each age group will come back together to share what they’ve learned, discuss their goals, and ask any questions they may have.
1:50 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.: Wrap-up and closing remarks.

Volunteers Needed!

To make this event a success, we’re looking for three volunteers to assist with each age group. If you’re passionate about helping kids and teens learn, this is the perfect opportunity to get involved. Parents will be present, and volunteers will work in pairs if needed.

If you’re interested or know someone who might be, please contact us! Volunteers are asked to attend one Zoom meeting prior to the event and arrive by 11:30 a.m. on the day of the event.

Why This Event Matters

This event is a reflection of my commitment to the community and to providing young people with the skills they need to thrive in the future. As a 2024 BMO Celebrating Women Grant recipient, I’m grateful for the opportunity to give back in a way that aligns with my professional mission and my passion for empowering others.

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Let’s come together to teach our youth the value of financial literacy—because their future is worth the investment.

Register now! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/empower-the-future-financial-literacy-for-youth-teens-tickets-1060227562179?aff=oddtdtcreator

If you own a small or mid-sized business in Illinois, a new federal requirement may affect you. In 2021, Congress passed the Corporate Transparency Act, designed to promote transparency and prevent illicit activity by requiring businesses to report their Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI). This requirement is now in effect, and it’s important to understand how it might impact your business.

What is the Corporate Transparency Act?

The Corporate Transparency Act requires certain businesses to report their beneficial owners — individuals who own or control a business — to the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN), part of the U.S. Department of Treasury. This is aimed at preventing bad actors from using shell companies to hide ownership and engage in illegal activities.

Who Must Report?

Your business may need to file a BOI report if it is:

• A corporation, LLC, or other entity registered with the Illinois Secretary of State’s Department of Business Services
• A domestic or foreign corporation, LLC, or other business entity with fewer than 20 U.S. employees and less than $5 million in gross receipts or sales

Reporting Exemptions

FinCEN provides 23 exemptions from reporting. These include publicly traded companies, tax-exempt non-profits, and large operating companies that meet specific criteria. A full list of exemptions can be found on FinCEN’s website.

When Is the Deadline?

For businesses registered before January 1, 2024, the deadline to file is January 1, 2025. If your business registered on or after January 1, 2024, you must file a BOI report within 90 days of receiving confirmation of incorporation.

How to File a BOI Report

BOI reports are filed electronically through FinCEN’s website, which provides confirmation once a report is submitted. It’s essential to file by the deadline to avoid penalties, which can include fines and even imprisonment for non-compliance.

What Happens If You Don’t File?

Failure to file a BOI report could lead to serious penalties. Civil fines of up to $500 per day, and criminal penalties including up to two years of imprisonment and fines of up to $10,000, may apply to businesses that fail to comply.

Need Assistance?

If you’re unsure whether your business is required to file or need help navigating the process, our firm is here to assist you. Schedule a consultation today to ensure your business stays in compliance with these new regulations.

For more detailed information, watch my latest video on this topic [link to video].

Beware of Scams

Remember, this is a one-time federally required filing, and the process is done online through FinCEN’s secure website. Be cautious of scams—if you receive unsolicited calls or emails asking for your information, they could be fraudulent. Don’t risk penalties—get compliant now! Reach out if you have questions or need help with your BOI report.

[Orland Park, Illinois] – Dionna Reynolds, a renowned attorney specializing in real estate, estate planning, and business law, has been awarded the prestigious $10,000 BMO Celebrating Women Grant. The grant, presented in collaboration with Deloitte, recognizes women-owned businesses with innovative visions for growth and community impact.

As the founder and managing attorney of a firm committed to helping individuals and businesses achieve their legal and professional goals, Reynolds plans to use the grant to further expand her services, focusing on empowering underserved communities with essential legal guidance. Her mission centers around assisting everyday people in becoming homeowners and ensuring that families are prepared with comprehensive estate plans.

“I’m honored to receive this grant from BMO and Deloitte,” said Reynolds. “This support will allow me to broaden my outreach, offering more free community workshops and increasing access to vital legal services that can help transform lives. By making homeownership and estate planning more accessible, we’re building stronger families and a more stable future for our communities.”

The grant will enable Reynolds to launch a series of free legal workshops and offer discounted estate planning services for clients, furthering her commitment to making legal expertise accessible to all. Reynolds, who has been featured on national programs like
Good Morning America and Nightline, is known for her community-driven approach to law, offering strategic legal support that not only protects but also advances her clients’ interests.

With over a decade of experience in real estate, estate planning, and corporate law, Reynolds is recognized as a leader in her field, bringing a compassionate, client-first approach to every case. Her firm’s success is built on long-term relationships, personalized service, and a dedication to ensuring that individuals and families are equipped with the legal tools they need to thrive.

About BMO Celebrating Women Grant
The BMO Celebrating Women Grant, in collaboration with Deloitte, is awarded to women-owned businesses that demonstrate potential for growth and innovation. The grant supports businesses launching new products, expanding into new markets, or increasing their workforce.

Contact
Dionna Reynolds
The Law Office of Dionna Reynolds, LLC
Phone: 708-981-3344
Email: dreynolds@attyreynolds.com
Website: www.attyreynolds.com

When you hear the words “estate planning,” you might think it’s something only for the wealthy or something to worry about later in life. But if you own a home, estate planning is essential—not just for protecting your property, but also for ensuring your family’s future.

Your home is likely one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, and making sure it’s handled properly after you’re gone is crucial. Let’s talk about why estate planning matters, especially if you’re a homeowner.

Avoiding Probate Headaches

If you pass away without an estate plan, your property could end up in probate—a legal process that determines how your assets will be distributed. Probate can take months or even years, tying up your home and causing unnecessary stress for your loved ones. During this time, your family might not be able to sell or even live in the house, and legal fees could pile up.

By having a will or trust in place, you can prevent these delays and expenses. A trust, in particular, keeps your home out of probate entirely, allowing for a smooth transfer to your beneficiaries without court involvement.

Protecting Your Family’s Home

Your home isn’t just a building; it’s where memories are made. Without an estate plan, the courts will decide who gets your home. This could lead to disagreements between family members or the home being sold against your wishes.

By outlining your intentions in a legal document, you make sure the home goes exactly where you want it to—whether that’s to your children, your spouse, or a close friend. You’re also protecting your family from the emotional toll of fighting over property during an already difficult time.

Planning for Long-Term Care

Estate planning isn’t just about who gets what after you’re gone; it’s also about preparing for the unexpected while you’re still here. What if you become unable to make decisions about your home due to illness or injury? Establishing powers of attorney or a living trust ensures that someone you trust can manage your home and finances in your best interest if you’re unable to do so.

Avoiding Family Disputes

When there’s no clear estate plan in place, even the closest families can find themselves in disagreements. Arguments over who should inherit the family home, or whether it should be sold, are common without a plan. By clearly outlining your wishes in a will or trust, you can help prevent family disputes and ensure everyone understands your intentions.

It’s Never Too Early to Plan

Many people think estate planning is something to put off until later in life, but the truth is, it’s never too early to start. Life is unpredictable, and having a plan in place gives you and your family peace of mind.

If you own a home, you’ve already taken a big step toward securing your family’s future. Don’t leave the next step to chance. By creating a will or trust, you can protect your home, minimize legal complications, and make sure your loved ones are cared for after you’re gone.

As summer winds down and the familiar hum of back-to-school preparations fills the air, many of us parents are busy checking off our to-do lists. We’re scrambling to gather school supplies, organize wardrobes, and adjust to the idea of earlier bedtimes. As a mom of two, I completely understand the whirlwind that is the back-to-school season. But, as an attorney who specializes in real estate, estate planning, probate, and guardianship, I also know this is an ideal time to tackle another important checklist: your legal documents. 

While the kids are getting their backpacks ready, it’s crucial to think about what you need to have in place, especially if you have a child heading off to college. This is a milestone that brings with it a mix of emotions and responsibilities. Along with setting up their dorm rooms and making sure they have the right meal plan, consider whether you’ve addressed the legal aspects of this new chapter in their lives. 

Why Now is the Perfect Time 

The back-to-school season is all about fresh starts, and it’s a great time to ensure your estate planning documents are up to date. Here’s why it’s particularly important: 

1. College-Bound Students: Once your child turns 18, they are legally considered adults. This means you no longer have automatic access to their medical records or the ability to make financial decisions on their behalf. By setting up a healthcare proxy, power of attorney, and other essential documents, you can ensure you’re able to step in if needed. 

2. Guardianship Considerations: If you have younger children, it’s crucial to ensure that guardianship documents are in place. This provides peace of mind that they will be cared for by someone you trust if anything happens to you. 

3. Estate Planning Updates: Life changes rapidly, especially as your children grow. It’s important to revisit your will, trusts, and other estate planning documents to make sure they reflect your current wishes and financial situation. 

Getting Started 

Taking the time to address these legal matters now can save you from potential headaches down the road. If you’re not sure where to start, here are a few steps to guide you: 

• Review Your Existing Documents: If you’ve already done some estate planning, now is a good time to review those documents. Make sure they still align with your current circumstances and goals. 

• Consult with an Attorney: Estate planning can be complex, and every family’s situation is unique. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure that everything is in order. 

• Prioritize Your Child’s Needs: Whether it’s setting up a power of attorney for a college student or designating a guardian for younger children, make sure your planning reflects your family’s specific needs. 

Final Thoughts 

As you prepare your kids for the new school year, don’t forget to prepare yourself as well. Ensuring that your legal documents are up to date is one of the best ways to protect your family and provide peace of mind. After all, just as we teach our children to be prepared for the school year ahead, we should also be prepared for life’s unexpected events. 

So, as you check off those back-to-school lists, take a moment to add one more item: a review of legal documents.