What Is Probate and How Does It Work?
Probate survives as a procedure originally implemented by the King of England to protect his citizens from themselves and their greed.
Do You Need a Revocable Trust or Irrevocable Trust?
Trust funds are not just for the ultra-rich. These sophisticated estate-planning tools can make just as much sense for middle-class Americans who own a home and have a net worth of at least $100,000.
What Should Not be Included in a Will?
In general, a last will and testament is an easy and straightforward way to state who gets what when you die and name a guardian for your minor children.
Can Estate Taxes Be Avoided with a Trust?
The estate tax exemption raised by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will sunset in five years—possibly sooner, as the new Congress gears up for a Biden tax overhaul.
What Is Fair in a Second Marriage and Estate Planning?
If you are planning to take another walk down the aisle, it is critical to take the time to review and revise your estate plan, especially if meaningful assets and debts are being brought into the marriage.
Avoid Estate Planning Mistakes
These all-too-common misconceptions can steer your estate plans in the wrong direction right from the start. Here’s how to overcome them and tips to build the right plan for your family.
Does a Trust Have to Be Funded to Be Valid?
If you don’t also fund it, unexpected things can happen and some of those things may not reflect the intent to the grantor.
How Much Should We Tell the Children about the Estate Plan?
Even those with thorough estate plans might have neglected to discuss details with potential heirs.
Trusts Make Sense Even When You Aren’t a Billionaire
Done right by a lawyer, your heirs can avoid the expense and time of probating your will and may save on estate taxes, while easing the administration of your affairs while alive and after you have gone.
What Happens to Credit Card Debt when Someone Dies?
If you get bogged down with a high balance that you can’t easily afford to pay off, it can take years to get out of debt. However, what happens to your credit card debt, if you die before you’ve repaid it?