What Should I Know about a Living Trust?
A living trust is an estate planning legal document that contains your instructions and authorization for what you want to happen to your assets, when you become disabled or pass away.
Do You Know Your Job as Executor, Agent or Trustee?
Has a family member or close friend asked you to serve as their executor, trustee or power of attorney? If you accepted the responsibility, do you know what this entails? Have you been given a copy of the documents you were named under? Do you know when you would begin serving in these roles? These are all important questions to ask or consider.
How Do You Stop Family Fights Over an Inheritance?
After a loved one passes, one of the biggest hurdles families face is passing wealth onto the next generation. Unfortunately, family dynamics can spur conflict and infighting among descendants.
No Time Like the Present Pandemic to Get the Estate Plan Going
There’s nothing like a once-in-a-lifetime global pandemic to focus one’s thinking. This year has been one for the books.
How Does Court Choose an Executor if a Will Isn’t Available?
An essential part of estate planning is selecting someone to represent you after your death in the management of your estate. This personal representative is also known as an executor, or executrix, if you choose a woman as your personal representative.
What Key Estate Planning Terms Should I Know?
Estate planning is an incredibly important tool, not just for the uber wealthy or those thinking about retirement. On the contrary, estate planning is something every adult should do.
How Do Joint Accounts and Beneficiary Designations Work in Estate Planning?
Remember that a will goes through probate, so a husband and wife typically try to avoid it by using joint ownership or beneficiary designations. However, they’re often mistaken by believing the will still controls their estate.
What Do I Need to Do after the Death of My Spouse?
The death of your spouse is a period of unimaginable grief. Unfortunately, there are many legal and financial obligations that will not wait.
Do I Need to Name a Guardian for My Children in the Will?
Why naming a guardian for your child is important.
Can I Leave My Pet Some of My Estate?
In addition to writing wills, Minnesotans are now setting up trusts to care for pets, ranging from dogs and horses to parrots and raccoons.