Having an estate plan in place is a prudent way to ensure your family is well cared-for in the event of unforeseen circumstances. Whether you already have an estate plan or you are putting it off until later in life, becoming a grandparent presents a perfect...
Estate Planning
Should you give away assets before you die instead of leaving them in your estate?
Taxes are one of those things that will still come after you, even after you die. When transferring assets from your estate to heirs, the government may issue a tax. Typically, estate taxes only occur for larger estates, but if it is a concern because of your net...
Preparing for the future: debt after death
Many who live in California have some type of estate plan or will in place to cover their assets when they die. This can determine who takes care of any minor children they have, who gets their retirement funds or what happens to the family pets. The opposite side of...
5 common estate planning mistakes for you to avoid
If you have not yet prepared your estate planning documents, resolve not to put this responsibility off any longer. Organizing your thoughts in advance helps smooth the way. Here are five common estate planning mistakes and how you can avoid them. 1. Failing to plan...
3 reasons why people put off will creation and estate planning
The topic of wills and estate planning is not an easy one for many people, and so they may find themselves putting it off as the years go by. However, failing to have such a plan in place may leave their families with miles of legal red tape. According to the American...
Should mental health issues be considered when planning your estate?
When thinking about estate planning, you may begin to wonder about how your mental health affects your estate. All of the time and effort spent on the financial future of your descendants is important. However, there are some obstacles that you must consider if you or...
Consider how to handle your intellectual property
When you sit down and account for your long years of hard work, you may find yourself dividing more than just money and physical assets. You might be a creator who has enriched the world with music, stories or other helpful designs. These intangible assets have the...
How to create and maintain a valid will in California
Your will can provide instructions for how you want the courts to divide your assets. However, invalid wills can inhibit the probate process. When you begin estate planning, make sure you create a legally valid will. Valid wills You must voluntarily write your will...
How liquidity, disability and taxes may affect your estate plan
When you think about estate planning, your assets probably come to mind and your main concern is what you want to leave to your heirs. However, depending on the nature and extent of those assets, and even your state of health, there are other important aspects of...
What does a special needs trustee do?
Having a child who has a disability can be stressful. After all, not only must you address his or her present-day needs, but you also may have to continue to support your child when he or she becomes an adult. Thankfully, individuals who cannot work because of their...