Estate Planning Articles
Some of these articles have been written by our law firm and other articles are written by the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys and compliments of our law firm. Any feedback or questions about the articles can be addressed by contacting our office.
The Estate Tax Is Not the Only Consideration in Estate Planning
The U.S. Congress continually debates the estate tax, often considering whether or not it should be done away with entirely. Many people think this tax is a cornerstone of estate planning, so if it’s eliminated, they don’t need an estate plan. Nothing is further from the truth. This article explains why.
Does a Roth Make Sense for You?
Choosing between a traditional IRA and a Roth IRA can have significant tax and estate planning consequences. Whether a Roth is the right option depends on a number of factors, including an account owner’s current income, anticipated post-retirement income, and estate planning goals.
Five Estate Planning Myths
Estate planning is on everyone’s “should do” list, but it rarely seems to make it to the top of the “to do” list. Perhaps this is because of all the myths surrounding the estate planning process. Here are five common estate planning myths, along with the truths behind them.
What to Expect When You’re Inheriting
Most of us have daydreamed about inheriting money, but the reality of inheriting often doesn’t match our dreams. In the real world, an inheritance can bring with it a number of questions and worries. Here we address four common concerns about inheritances.
Helping Your Parents Age Gracefully
Your mom and dad have always been there to guide you through life’s challenges. Now, the tables are turning. Learn some strategies for gently helping your parents plan for the challenges they’re likely to face as they age.
Your Family Deserves More Than an Estate Plan
If you want to leave a true legacy, a traditional estate plan is not enough. With Legacy Planning, you can pass on your values, wisdom, and family heritage along with your nest egg. You can also provide your children’s inheritances with just the right amount of protection from the threats and challenges of life.
Planning Your Estate With Privacy in Mind
When you use a Will to plan your estate, much of your personal information becomes public after your death. A Trust can help you accomplish your estate planning goals while shielding your personal affairs from prying eyes.
Why a Trust Makes Sense – Even If Your Child Is Not a Child
If your children have reached adulthood, you might assume it’s best to leave them their inheritances outright, with no restrictions. However, you want to make sure your children enjoy flexibility in accessing and using their inheritances while minimizing the impact of taxes, divorce, lawsuits, and other threats. Therefore, it might be better to leave their inheritances in a Trust.
I Have an Estate Plan: Do I Still Need My Attorney?
Your estate plan is prepared. Your Living Trust is in place and properly funded, you have a Pour-Over Will just in case, and your incapacity plan is ready and waiting in the event you need it. Is it time to part ways with your attorney? Not at all! In fact, your relationship with your estate planning attorney has just started.
The Accidental Spouse
Could you be married and not even realize it? If you live in a state that recognizes common law marriage, you could be married even without a marriage license or an official ceremony. Find out how common law marriage affects your estate plan and what you can do about it.
Securities offered through Avantax Investment Services SM, Member FINRA, SIPC. Investment Advisory Services offered through Avantax Advisory Services SM. Placing business through Avantax Insurance Services SM. CA# 0D57837