Special needs trusts allow individuals with disabilities to qualify for need-based government assistance while maintaining access to additional assets which can be used to pay for expenses not covered by such government benefits. If the trust is set up correctly,...
Self-Settled vs. Third-Party Special Needs Trusts Continue reading…
Planning Pitfall: Probate vs. Non-Probate Property
Transfer of property at death can be rather complex. Many are under the impression that instructions provided in a valid will are sufficient to transfer their assets to the individuals named in the will. ...
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Living Trusts & Probate Avoidance
You want your money and property should go to your loved ones when you die, not to the courts, lawyers, or the government. Unfortunately, unless you’ve taken proper estate planning, procedures, your heirs could lose a sizable portion of their...
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Considering Online Estate Planning? Think Twice
The recent proliferation of online estate planning document services has attracted many individuals to prepare their own estate documents in what appears to be a low-cost solution. However, this focus on price over value could mean your wishes will not...
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Issues to Consider When Gifting to Grandchildren
Many grandparents who are financially stable love the idea of making gifts to their grandchildren. However, they are usually not aware of the many issues related to what many consider to be a simple gift. If you are considering making a...
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Do Heirs Have to Pay Off Their Loved One’s Debts?
The recent economic recession, and staggering increases in health care costs have left millions of Americans facing incredible losses and mounting debt in their final years. Are you concerned that, rather than inheriting wealth from your parents, you will instead inherit...
Do Heirs Have to Pay Off Their Loved One’s Debts? Continue reading…
Coordinating Property Ownership and Your Estate Plan
When planning your estate, you must consider how you hold title to your real and personal property. The title and your designated beneficiaries will control how your real estate, bank accounts, retirement accounts, vehicles and investments are distributed upon your...
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Changing Uses for Bypass Trusts
Every year, each individual who dies in the U.S. can leave a certain amount of money to his or her heirs before facing any federal estate taxes. For example, in 2016, a person who dies could leave $5.45 million to his...
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Do I Really need Advance Directives for Health Care?
Many people are confused by advance directives for health care. They are unsure what type of directives are available. and whether or not they need directives at all, especially if they are young. There are several types of advance directives....
Do I Really need Advance Directives for Health Care? Continue reading…
Estate Planning Don’ts
Preparing for the future is an uncertain business, but there are steps you can take during your lifetime to simplify matters for your loved ones after you pass, and to ensure your final wishes are carried out. Planning for what happens...
Estate Planning Don’ts Continue reading…