11

Mar

The True Cost of Inheriting a Home

The United States is in the midst of the largest generational wealth transfer in history. Over the next few decades, baby boomers are expected to pass down an estimated $84 trillion in wealth1, $18 to $19 trillion of it tied to residential real estate2. For many younger Americans...

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Category: Estate Planning


11

Mar

What to Do After a Loved One Dies

Losing a loved one is never easy. Along with the grief, you may suddenly find yourself responsible for handling their affairs. If you are named as the executor or personal representative (when there is a will or no estate plan) or as the successor trustee (when there is a trust)...

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Category: Legal Advice


11

Mar

When a Trustee Becomes a Burden: Knowing When to Remove Them

The role of trustee carries significant responsibility. A trustee must not only honor the trust creator's wishes but also manage assets for the benefit of the beneficiaries with accuracy, transparency, and fairness. While being named as trustee reflects confidence and trust...

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Categories: Trusts Legal Advice


11

Mar

How a Directed Trust Can Transform Estate Planning

The idea of one-size-fits-all no longer fits a world where people expect products and services to be tailored to their individual preferences. Customization and flexibility are expected in nearly every aspect of life, and estate planning is no exception. Traditional trusts have l...

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Category: Estate Planning


11

Mar

Foster Children and Estate Planning: Protecting the Ones You Call Family

A foster child may come into your life through the court system, an agency, or your own extended family. However it begins, the relationship can evolve into a deeply personal bond, making the child feel like a true member of your family. Unfortunately, the law does not always see...

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Category: Estate Planning


11

Mar

Whom Should You Tell About Your Estate Plan?

Creating an estate plan is often a deeply personal process. After all, how you choose to protect and pass on your money and property is your private business. While your spouse or partner may know the details (especially if you planned together), should anyone else know what&rsqu...

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Category: Estate Planning


11

Mar

If I Leave Someone My Home, What Do They Really Get?

For many people, their home is their most valuable asset as well as the heart of their family life-a place filled with stories, memories, and meaning. Yet when it comes to estate planning, the law views your home not as a sentimental space, but as a collection of separate p...

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Category: Estate Planning


11

Mar

Parental Warning: How Joint Ownership Can Accidentally Disinherit Your Children

If you own your home, other property, or financial accounts jointly with someone (such as a spouse or an adult child), you may think you're making things easier for your loved ones. But depending on how that ownership is structured, you could be setting the stage for seriou...

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09

Mar

Ancillary Probate: What It Is, When It Happens, and How to Avoid It

Many people own property in more than one state. This might include a vacation home near the coast, a rental property in a former home state, or land inherited from family members. While owning out-of-state property can be beneficial during your lifetime, it can create additional...

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Category: Estate Planning


09

Mar

How to Own Your Real Estate: Estate Planning Options for Homes, Vacation Property, and Rentals

Real estate is often one of the most valuable assets in an estate. It may include your primary residence, vacation homes, rental properties, or even undeveloped land. Because each type of property serves a different purpose, the best way to hold title can vary depending on your g...

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Category: Estate Planning


09

Mar

How You Title Your Real Estate Matters

Real estate can be owned in several different ways, and the way your property is titled can have significant legal and financial consequences. Your ownership structure affects how much control you have over the property during your lifetime, how vulnerable it may be to creditors ...

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09

Mar

The Hidden Gender Gap in Estate Planning—and How to Close It

You have likely heard of the gender pay gap. But there is another, less-discussed disparity that also affects long-term financial security: the estate planning gender gap. Although the two are related in some ways-earning less over a lifetime can limit investment opportunit...

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Category: Estate Planning