Estate planning is not just for the wealthy or those nearing retirement. It is a crucial process that helps anyone protect their assets, reduce stress for loved ones, and ensure final wishes are followed. Even when family members get along, many legal and financial questions arise after a death or during incapacity. Taking proactive steps…
When Should I Start Estate Planning? What comes to mind when you hear “estate planning”? You might think it’s just for the obscenely wealthy folk gracing Forbes covers. But it’s time we bust that myth. Estate planning, my friend, is something everyone needs. Even you! Let’s delve into the details of estate planning and explore…
Common North Carolina Probate Issues Navigating the probate process in North Carolina can be a complex task. It involves legal procedures, paperwork, and often, emotional stress. This article aims to shed light on common probate issues in North Carolina. It provides an overview of the probate process and highlights the role of North Carolina probate…
Is Your Estate Plan as Stale as Last Week’s Ham Sandwich? Estate plans are almost magical: They allow you to maintain control of your assets, yet protect you should you become incapacitated. They take care of your family and pets. And, if carefully crafted, they reduce fees, taxes, stress, and time delays. Estate plans can…
Dear Estate Planning Clients: After arranging your accounts and property with an attorney, it is easy to assume that you have checked estate planning off of your list forever. The reality is not so simple. Not only do tax laws frequently change, but so does your life. The smallest change could have a big impact…
Thirteen Estate Planning Terms You Need to Know Estate planning—it is an incredibly important tool, not just for the uber wealthy or those thinking about retirement. On the contrary, estate planning is something every adult should do. Estate planning can help you accomplish any number of goals, including appointing guardians for minor children, choosing healthcare…
Wealth Transfer Strategies to Consider in an Election Year With a push by the Democratic party to return federal estate taxes to their historic norms, taxpayers need to act now before Congress passes legislation that could adversely impact their estates. Currently, the federal estate and gift tax exemption is set at $11.58 million per taxpayer.…
Most people understand that having some sort of an estate plan is a good thing. However, many of us do not take the first steps to get that estate plan in place because we do not understand the nuances between a will and trust – and dying without either. Here is what will generally happen…
Buyer Beware: How to Avoid Estate Planning Scams Imagine spending thousands of dollars on an estate plan to protect loved ones, only to find that no true protection exists. Unfortunately, this scenario happens on a regular basis to individuals who are victims of estate planning schemes. According to a report conducted by the U.S. Consumer…
Confused about the differences between a will and a trust? If so, you are not alone. While it is always wise to contact experts like us, it is also important to understand the basics. Here is a quick and simple reference guide: What a Revocable Living Trust Can Do – That a Will Cannot Avoid…