New Home Contract? Now’s the Time to Consider a Trust
You’ve found your dream home and your offer’s been accepted – this is an exciting time! As you approach closing, your agent, attorney, or title company will ask how you’d like to hold the title to the property. While individual ownership is common, placing your new house into a trust right from the start has […]
Are All Trusts Living Trusts?
The word “trust” gets used quite broadly, creating potential confusion. While a “living trust” is a widely discussed instrument for estate planning, it’s crucial to understand that not every trust is a living trust. We’ll break down the key distinctions. What is a Trust? Simply put, a trust is a legal arrangement where someone (the […]
Why Setting Up a Trust is a Smart Move When Buying a New Home
Buying a new home is more than just a significant financial investment; it’s a key component of your overall estate. As you embark on this exciting journey, it’s crucial to consider how this asset will be managed, both now and in the future. One effective strategy for managing real estate assets is setting up a […]
What to Include When Crafting Your Trust
When you’re working with a trust attorney, it’s crucial to understand what you can include in your trust document. Let’s explore the variety of instructions or restrictions that can make your trust truly yours, ensuring your legacy is managed just the way you envision. Tailoring Your Trust: A Guide to Restrictions Creating a trust allows […]
How to Navigate Estate Planning Without Heirs
Many people mistakenly believe that without direct heirs—like children or grandchildren—there’s no need for estate planning. However, the reality is quite different. Even if you don’t have immediate family to inherit your assets, deciding how your estate will be distributed is crucial. If not, you might be surprised at who ends up with your hard-earned […]
Estate Planning Considerations for Veterans: Tips to Ensure Your Service is Honored
For those who have served in the military, estate planning takes on unique considerations. Veterans have earned specific benefits and honors due to their service, and it’s essential that these are incorporated into an estate and long-term care plan. Here are some key points veterans should consider: Safeguarding Your DD214 Your DD214, or Certificate of […]
Flexibility and Considerations for Changing Beneficiaries on Your Life Insurance
Life insurance is a powerful tool to ensure that your loved ones are taken care of financially after you’re gone. But as life evolves, so do our relationships and priorities. A common question we encounter is: “Can I change the beneficiaries on my life insurance whenever I want?” Our will and trust attorneys dive into […]
Understanding Beneficiary Rights: Navigating Trustee Interactions
When you’re named a beneficiary of a trust, it’s natural to have questions about your inheritance and the trustee’s actions. Knowing your rights is essential in ensuring transparency and fair management. Here, our trust lawyers shed light on the powers and responsibilities at play. Your Rights as a Beneficiary Right to Information: As a beneficiary, […]
Broaching the Sensitive Topic of Estate Planning
Estate planning is a crucial topic, but it’s often cloaked in sensitivity, especially when older loved ones feel that their finances are private matters. Knowing how to navigate this conversation respectfully and effectively is crucial. Why It Matters Having a will and comprehensive estate plan ensures that your loved one’s wishes are carried out, minimizing […]
Key Considerations for Opening a Bank Account in the Name of a Trust
A trust is a valuable estate planning tool that offers flexibility and control over the distribution of your assets. One essential aspect of managing a trust is opening a bank account in its name. This article will explore the key factors to consider when opening a trust bank account, including the required documentation, account types, […]