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What If Grandma Didn’t Have a Will and Died from COVID-19?

The novel coronavirus pandemic has upended the lives of millions, created a slew of unexpected struggles and, for many, turned nightmares into reality.

Posted on: July 9, 2020

How Do I Avoid the Three Biggest Estate Planning Mistakes?

Planning for death is like any other transition of life, except this is one we can make easier for our loved ones. Don’t let the process of settling your estate, a process commonly known as probate, get in their way — and cost them more money.

Posted on: July 6, 2020

What You Need to Know about Drafting Your Will

If you pass away with no will, a state court may decide who gets your assets and — if you have children — who will care for them.

Posted on: June 30, 2020

What Exactly Does an Executor Do?

Whether you’re planning ahead for your own heirs or have been asked to serve as executor for someone else, it pays to understand what the role requires.

Posted on: June 19, 2020

What You Need to Do after a Loved One Dies

When a family member or other loved one dies, the natural response is to feel overwhelmed. However, there are some very practical and legal matters that need to be attended to ‘immediately, if not sooner.’

Posted on: June 17, 2020

What Should My Estate Plan Include?

Though most people who contract COVID-19 experience mild symptoms, it doesn’t hurt to be prepared if you do need to be hospitalized. It can feel scary thinking about getting sick or not being able to make decisions for yourself, but an estate plan is meant to ease your fears. After all, wouldn’t you feel better knowing that the burden of making health and financial decisions will never fall on unprepared family members?

Posted on: June 15, 2020

How Does a Spendthrift Trust Protect Heirs from Themselves?

What steps can be put into place to ensure an adult child, who makes poor decisions, will be secure after the death of the parent? The main asset is life insurance.

Posted on: June 9, 2020

Should I Give My Kid the House Now or Leave It to Him in My Will?

Adding an adult child to your house deed, or giving them the home outright, might seem like a smart thing to do. It usually isn’t.

Posted on: June 1, 2020

When Should I Update My Estate Plan?

Has it been awhile since you reviewed your estate planning strategy? If so, it may require some updating, based on recent changes to laws impacting your tax and retirement planning.

Posted on: May 20, 2020

What Is a ‘Survivorship’ Period?

Survivorship periods don’t usually surpass 60 days. If this period surpasses 120 days, it could put the tax-free estate transfer of assets to a surviving spouse at risk.

Posted on: May 19, 2020