Planning For A Secure Future
Even in an ideal situation, the probate process can take a long time, ranging from a few months to more than a year. Unfortunately, several causes of delay can make probate drag on even longer. As a result, your family may have to pay extra fees and wait years to...
Choosing a family member as your trustee might feel like an obvious choice. After all, your relatives know you best and understand your wishes for the future, right? The emotional connection and trust you share with family members can make them seem like ideal...
Estate taxes take a big bite out of family wealth each time money passes from one generation to the next. Many families now turn to generation-skipping trusts (GSTs) to keep more assets in the family and reduce their tax burden. This innovative planning tool helps...
Estate planning can be confusing, especially when it comes to pour-over wills. You might have heard different things about them and wonder if they matter to you. Whether you are starting your estate plan or reviewing an existing one, it is important to clear up any...
Thinking about probate costs while dealing with loss can be stressful and confusing. Moreover, California has one of the highest probate costs in the country. In many cases, the total probate expenses catch grieving families off guard. Probate costs generally vary...
When a loved one passes away, addressing the complexities of estate administration can be overwhelming. Probate, the legal process of settling an estate, can be time-consuming, costly and public. However, by incorporating trusts into your estate plan, you can simplify...
Estate planning is a crucial aspect of managing one's assets and ensuring their distribution according to personal wishes, yet many misconceptions surround it, leading to misunderstandings and missed opportunities. Myth 1: Estate planning is only for the wealthy Many...
When someone dies, their estate needs management. If there's a will, the named executor handles any estate-related matters for the deceased. When there is no will, the court appoints an administrator following a priority order. Spouses are first in this order. The...
As a beneficiary, waiting for your inheritance can be stressful. While most probate processes go smoothly, sometimes issues arise that could put your inheritance at risk. Here are some red flags to watch out for: Lack of communication If the executor is not keeping...
An estate plan is not a set-it-and-forget-it kind of task. Although it may be time-consuming, life's unpredictable nature often necessitates a reevaluation of these plans. Here are five major life events that signal it is time for an estate plan review. Having a child...