Controlling how your assets are distributed and managed after you pass away is one of the benefits of a trust. Certain types of trusts can protect an estate from disputes, estate taxes and probate. You may have read about the different types of trusts you can add to...
Your parents are getting on in age, and you can see their health deteriorating in front of your eyes. Maybe they will live for many years yet, or maybe their time will come soon, but there is one thing that is bothering you – you are not sure if they have an estate...
The debts a person accumulates when they’re living don’t just disappear when that person passes away. Instead, the creditors can turn to the person’s estate to recover the money they’re due. This is done by making a claim with the administrator of the estate. One of...
Starting a family is an exciting milestone, but it also brings new responsibilities that can feel overwhelming. One of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones is planning for the future, even if it feels like something that can wait. Estate...
You want your estate plan to stick when you’re gone. No fighting, drama or squabbles among your loved ones that turn into courtroom drama - just your wishes carried out as intended. Can including a no-contest clause in your will or trust help you achieve this? First,...
Estate planning is your opportunity to leave a lasting legacy, but doubts about your testamentary capacity can jeopardize your final wishes. Taking steps to establish your mental clarity and intentions while you are alive can help preserve your wishes if someone...
How your assets are used after you pass away is not always in your control. Your assets could be mismanaged and poorly invested. However, you can protect your legacy with a trust. A trust is a legal arrangement that allows a trustee to manage your estate, helping to...
Life is always evolving, and your estate plan should reflect this. Failing to update it could lead to unintended consequences for your loved ones. They may miss out on an inheritance that you wanted them to receive. An estate plan should generally be reviewed every...
Creating an estate plan requires you to take an account of all your assets so you can determine who you will pass each one down to. Some people can do this through their will, but others may opt to use a trust. One type of trust that you may come across is an...
If you want to give someone else the ability to make important decisions on your behalf, you may want to use a power of attorney (POA). For instance, you may be considering your future medical needs. You can use a POA and choose an agent, giving them the correct...