A lot of people think an estate plan simply refers to a will or trust that provides explicit instructions for handling your estate after your death. Wills and trusts are definitely part of an estate plan, but there are many more components. So, what is an estate plan really? An estate plan is a comprehensive set of legal documents Continue Reading →
While you can’t directly leave assets in your estate plan to your pets, you should consider their future care and wellbeing should they outlive you. You may have a verbal agreement with a family member or friend who loves your pet, but there are other considerations, such as the cost of veterinary care, food, grooming, etc. that should be Continue Reading →
It’s hard to think about wills and trusts and your eventual death, but it’s even harder on your family and loved ones when there’s no plan in place for what happens after you die. And while no one really wants to talk about estate planning, you’ll find that you actually feel much better after you do. How a Will Continue Reading →
Disinheriting a family member or other potential beneficiary is usually considered an intentional occurrence. But it quite frequently happens purely by accident (known as “accidental disinheritance”) – either through procrastination or simply a lack of understanding of how estate and probate law work. Many people assume that a will on its own will dictate how assets are distributed. Continue Reading →
If you’re in an LGBTQ+ partnership (married, civil union, common-law marriage, or long-term relationship) you NEED a will…like yesterday. Don’t get us wrong, as an estate planning firm, we think having a plan for your future is imperative for anyone in any relationship. However, there are a few very specific things you need to consider adding to your will if Continue Reading →
And why you need both in your estate plan You’ve worked hard for your family most of your life. Naming beneficiaries can keep all your hard work you’ve provided to benefit your family where it belongs, ensuring generational wealth. When it comes to naming beneficiaries, you’ll need a primary beneficiary and a contingent beneficiary. But do you need both? Once Continue Reading →
Two reasons why it’s a good idea to have a will, even if you’re not married. You’re in love. It doesn’t matter if you have a piece of paper to prove it, right? Yes, however, that sentiment wouldn’t hold up in court, especially when your other half is up against family members in the event of your death. Continue Reading →
All you need to know about Power of Attorney in Estate Planning Power of Attorney: Legal Words You Need to Know Principal: If it’s your estate plan, you’re the principal when it comes to the Power of Attorney document. Agent or Attorney-in-Fact: the person you are naming as your Power of Attorney Incapacitated: When a person Continue Reading →
“Say not you know another entirely till you have divided an inheritance with him.” -Johann Kaspar Lavater Leaving money to the family—especially your children if they’re financially irresponsible—is different than a business transaction. It’s chock full of emotion, and if you don’t plan carefully, heated arguments may ensue which could squander your hard-earned money in the process. Good thing Continue Reading →
The kids are grown and flown, now is the time to update your will and estate plan and focus on your future You’ve devoted 18-plus years to giving your child wings to fly on their own, and now you’re faced with an empty nest, but there’s nothing empty about the future—you now get to focus on and plan for yourself! Continue Reading →