Estate Planning Needs for Every Stage
Although there is often a progression of complexity in estate planning, this progression generally follows stages in life rather than specific ages.
Different Trusts for Different Estate Planning Purposes
Trusts are legal entities that own assets, and all trusts are not alike. They are created by a written trust document with certain provisions that can vary from trust to trust.
What Happens When a Will Is Challenged?
Sometimes beneficiaries end up not receiving their assets. Beneficiaries often lose out because the estate planning wasn’t done properly, but sometimes another family member contests the decedent’s will.
Coronavirus Makes Estate and Tax Planning an Urgent Task
What may have seemed like something to take care of ‘one day,’ has turned into a basic necessity that makes it essential and necessary for you to encourage your clients to act now.
Keeping Yourself and Loved Ones Safe during the Pandemic
Seniors are especially at risk during the coronavirus pandemic. The numbers are shocking.
Are My Beneficiary Designations Trouble for My Heirs?
Most consumers are familiar with the beneficiary designation form they complete when opening an IRA or 401(k). The form designates who receives the asset, if the account owner dies. However, these forms can create confusion, unintended bequests and family turmoil, if not adequately monitored.
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.
How Low-Interest Rates Create Estate Planning Opportunities
A more present sense of one's own mortality may drive those who have not made plans before to begin the process of creating an estate plan. For those who have existing plans, are they up to date? How does the changing economic environment affect prior decisions?
Do Beneficiaries of Special Needs Trusts Have Rights?
Do Beneficiaries of Special Needs Trusts Have Rights? A special needs trust is set up to provide money for the care and support of the beneficiary with special needs. A trustee is then named or appointed to manage the trust’s…
Who Gets Copies of the Will After a Person Dies?
Who Gets Copies of the Will After a Person Dies? Many movies and television shows have a scene where a family gathers around a big table after a relative has died to listen to the reading of the will. While…