Even though probate carries a stigma of having a bad reputation, thoughtful estate planning can minimize or avoid it. In reality, most heirs will have to navigate the probate process to some degree after losing a loved one. Understanding what…
Generation Xers are entering their 40s and 50s at a time when retirement planning should be a priority. There are many things to consider, including finances, investments, insurance policies, legal documents, living arrangements, and healthcare. It is advisable to make…
Throughout probate, a will is formalized, a personal representative is appointed to administer the estate, and assets are distributed to intended beneficiaries. It also requires paying the decedent’s outstanding debts and federal and state taxes. Each state has different laws…
In most cases, people's lives follow predictable patterns. Your concerns are probably different at 60 than they were at 40. You may be looking at retiring soon, considering the potential for needing long-term care, or leaving your assets to the…
A power of attorney is important when planning for the possibility of becoming incapacitated and needing a trusted agent to manage your affairs. These legal documents can grant broad authority to one or more power of attorney agents to transact…
Advanced Directives are legal documents that guide medical and health care decisions for patients who are incapacitated and cannot decide for themselves. Advance directives, sometimes called "living wills," protect individuals in the event that they are unable to make decisions…
Having no children or younger family members to assist them as they age can present new challenges to seniors in the baby boomer generation. As in generations before, baby boomers are living longer and healthier lives but for some, there is…
1. My family and I don’t own much. Can’t we put off planning until we can afford it? You shouldn’t. It is crucial to give legal authority to a person of your choice, to care for your children if anything…
Smartphones and tablets are used more and more by Americans to store and share information. Whether engaging in online banking, using a mobile plane boarding pass or creating work calendars shared in the cloud, the internet of things provides needed…
Legal techniques to avoid probate can be a good way to lower taxes, keep your estate private, and avoid having to gain court approval every step of the way. They can save you time, frustration, and in many cases, significant…