You may be wondering how your affairs will be handled after your death, whether you have an estate plan in place, or not. Take a look at some of the information below, to better understand how your affairs will be handled if you do indeed have a plan. Part 1 of this 2 part article discusses what happens if you do NOT have an estate plan in place. With an estate plan… If you only have a will in place, your affairs will likely still have to go through the probate process. This is … [Read more...] about What Happens After You Die…With or Without an Estate Plan (part 2 of 2)
Revocable Living Trust
Probate Avoidance Made Easy (part 2 of 2)
Probate can be an extremely costly, lengthy, and public process. Many people take the time to carefully plan their estate in order to avoid probate. If you’re looking to avoid probate, you will need to utilize the right techniques. Take a look at some more great ways to avoid probate. If you have any questions or if you’re ready to discuss your probate avoidance needs, meet with an experienced, qualified estate planning attorney. Gift during your lifetime. If you’re able and willing … [Read more...] about Probate Avoidance Made Easy (part 2 of 2)
Common Estate Planning Myths (part 3 of 3)
Friends, family, acquaintances, and the internet are a breeding ground for estate planning myths. These myths can lead to a failure to plan or a plan that fails. To set the record straight, we are dispelling 7 estate planning myths in this three part article. 5. I don’t need a trust because I have a will. Myth!!! Most people would benefit from having a revocable living trust in addition to a pour-over-will. While your will is necessary, it is only effective after you’re dead. … [Read more...] about Common Estate Planning Myths (part 3 of 3)
Common Estate Planning Myths (part 2 of 3)
Friends, family, acquaintances, and the internet are a breeding ground for estate planning myths. These myths can lead to a failure to plan or a plan that fails. To set the record straight, we are dispelling common estate planning myths in this three part article. 3. Joint ownership, commonly called joint tenancy, is an inexpensive and easy way to avoid probate. It’s cheaper than using a fully funded revocable living trust. Myth!!! Joint ownership means that you could lose your … [Read more...] about Common Estate Planning Myths (part 2 of 3)
Common Estate Planning Myths (part 1 of 3)
Friends, family, acquaintances, and the internet are a breeding ground for estate planning myths. These myths can lead to a failure to plan or a plan that fails. To set the record straight, we are dispelling 7 estate planning myths in this three part article. 1. Estate planning is only for the rich. Myth!!! Estate planning is really for anyone who cares about someone else. If you want to take the burden off your loved ones’ shoulders, keeping expenses, hassle, and time delay to a … [Read more...] about Common Estate Planning Myths (part 1 of 3)
Answers To Your Living Trust Questions (3 of 3)
Trusts have been around for hundreds of years; specifically, the living trust gained popularity in the 1970s as a probate avoidance technique. Today, living trusts are often used as a foundational document in estate plans. We've found that many folks have both questions and misconceptions about the living trust; so, in this three part series, we answer your living trust questions. Does everyone need a living trust? Most folks would likely benefit from having a living trust; however, if … [Read more...] about Answers To Your Living Trust Questions (3 of 3)
Answers To Your Living Trust Questions (1 of 3)
Trusts have been around for hundreds of years; specifically, the living trust gained popularity in the 1970s as a probate avoidance technique. Today, living trusts are often used as a foundational document in estate plans. We’ve found that many folks have both questions and misconceptions about the living trust; so, in this three part series, we answer your living trust questions. I am confused about the different types of trusts. Is a living trust always called “living trust”? Great … [Read more...] about Answers To Your Living Trust Questions (1 of 3)
13 Disturbing Estate Planning Problems
Each of these 13 disturbing estate planning facts is true; but, each situation can be avoided with a strong, individualized, comprehensive, and up-to-date estate plan. If you don’t name a guardian in your will, your minor children could end up with persons you either don't like or don't know. If you don’t provide for your pet in your estate plan, your pet may be euthanized when you die. If you put assets in joint tenancy with a second spouse, your children may be disinherited. If … [Read more...] about 13 Disturbing Estate Planning Problems
Estate Planning for Adult Children Suffering from Alcoholism
Estate planning can extend your loving support and guidance to your children even after you are gone. If you have a child with an addiction problem such as alcoholism or other substance abuse issue, you can put your best efforts forward in ensuring that the inheritance you leave for him won’t be used to fuel the addiction or even kill him. Perhaps, this is one of the most important benefits of estate planning for adult children. Alcoholism runs rampant and often does not rear its ugly head … [Read more...] about Estate Planning for Adult Children Suffering from Alcoholism
A Basic Guide to Trusts
If you’re thinking about your estate planning affairs, you may be considering the use of trusts. It’s important to understand how trusts work, so that you can make the best planning decisions; take a look at the following basic information to learn more. If you have any questions, or if you’d like to discuss how trusts can fit in with your estate plan, meet with an experienced, qualified estate planning attorney. Trustee Holds Legal Title to Trust Assets When you create a trust, you’re … [Read more...] about A Basic Guide to Trusts
