Category Archives: Trusts

Avoid Estate Planning Procrastination

Text "NOW"

Don’t Procrastinate: Talk with Your Family and Your Estate Planning Attorney Today There’s no perfect time to broach the subject of estate planning with your family. We all know that everyone passes away eventually, but many of us often want to conveniently forget that reality. You face a decision. Take the initiative to start a family […]

When to Review Your Estate Plan

Financial Changes

Just like other important life tasks, your estate plan deserves your time and attention. It’s important that you work with us to review your estate plan at least once a year. Think of this as your estate plan’s annual physical exam, and remember—prevention is the best cure. An annual exam isn’t necessarily the only time […]

All About Niche Trusts

Niche Trust Unique

You’re not a carbon copy of your neighbor. Likewise, your estate plan shouldn’t be a carbon copy of theirs. A qualified estate planning team tailors trusts to specific needs. Your team works together to produce, tailor, or edit your estate plan. Consider niche trusts.

Does a Signed Trust Eliminate the Probate Process?

Asset Protection Probate Process

Planning ahead benefits everyone involved. This applies to vacations and job interviews as much as to end-of-life concerns. Outlining your priorities and anticipating potential challenges makes sense in everything, including your estate. Clearly establishing protection over wealth and assets protects your family if you pass away or become incapacitated. However, simply meeting with an attorney […]

Add Estate Planning to Your Vacation Checklist

Did you plan your vacation itinerary? Booked plane tickets? Reserved a room? Tossed sunblock and a beach novel into your suitcase? After settling your travel plans, before heading out the door, consider whether your estate plan is up to date. Don’t leave before ensuring the financial health and the future of your loved ones remains […]

3 Asset Protection Tips

Asset Protection Save House

People mistakenly believe that asset protection only matters for wealthy families or professionals in high-risk occupations. But this is not the case. Anyone can be sued as a result of a car accident, foreclosure, unpaid medical bills, or tenant injury. A monetary judgment against you could decimate your finances. What Is Asset Protection Planning? Asset […]

Family Estate-Planning Peace

Most families get together for the holidays, share laughs, and tell stories. Everyone gets along and enjoys each other’s company. Then, the matriarch or patriarch dies. Suddenly, years of pent-up resentment and hurt feelings bubble to the surface. And the once-happy family dynamic crumbles over the decedent’s estate. There goes estate-planning peace!

What to Bring to An Estate Planning Meeting

Estate Attorney Meeting

Putting together an estate plan? If so, consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in this area of law. Your initial estate planning meeting will allow you the chance to discuss your family’s financial situation and cover concerns and goals. Preparing ahead of time for this meeting will smooth the way for you […]

Estate Planning for Rental Property Owners

Estate Planning Steps

Popular services like Airbnb offer attractive alternatives to hotel stays. Homeowners and vacationers, alike, enjoy the perks associated with “easy” rentals. Do you own a home or other income-generating rental property? Make sure you understand the following asset protection and estate planning considerations: Protecting Owners from Liability As with any rental relationship, property ownership comes […]

How to Coordinate Retirement & Estate Plans

Death & Taxes Estate Planning in Retirement

We often think of retirement accounts as monolithic resources. It is easy to see why. We spend years socking away money for the future. Unfortunately, however, the rising cost of healthcare threatens to deplete even the largest retirement account. Because retirement funds make up the largest assets in a person’s estate, proper planning is crucial […]