Americans are confused. They're confused about estate planning and rightfully so, it's a diverse topic. Should you create a will, a trust or both? It depends because they serve different purposes, but both can be beneficial to form a complete estate plan. Will and...
Parents would be wise to consider guardianship matters
For New York parents with minor-aged children, the thought of not being around to raise their kids is often too painful to even contemplate. Forces beyond one’s control, however, may result in the premature death of one or both parents. If the unthinkable...The basics of estate planning: part III
This week, we’ve been discussing those documents essential to any comprehensive estate plan. We’ve discussed the importance of having a will as well as designating beneficiaries. We’ve also provided information related to the importance of...The basics of estate planning : part II
In this blog post, we’ll continue to discuss those components that make up a comprehensive estate plan. In our last post we discussed how both a will and beneficiary designations can be used to pass along wealth and assets to loved ones and intended parties. In...The basics of estate planning : part I
Despite the significance, many people fail to establish a comprehensive estate plan. In fact, according to a 2011 Harris Interactive Survey, only 43 percent of U.S. residents even have a will. For some, the process of contemplating death and the fate of loved ones...Considers for parents planning to leave money to a child
The relationship between parent and child should be based on unconditional love. That being said, as parents and children age, their relationship often grows more complex and, at times, strained. Growing or grown children may struggle with personal issues or make life...Estate planning considerations for same-sex couples
This past summer, gay rights proponents across the country celebrated as the U.S. Supreme Court chose to strike down the Defense of Marriage Act. As a result, marriage is no longer legally defined as being solely between one man and one woman. With the overturning of...Estate planning and abusiness succession plans
Business owners are a special breed of individuals who often endure years of financial and personal sacrifice before finding success. For many, it’s important that all those years of sacrifice mean something and that a family business continue to grow and thrive...Using a trust to accomplish estate planning goals
When most people think about estate planning, a document known as a last will and testament comes to mind. While a will is certainly a central and essential component to any comprehensive estate plan, there are a number of other important estate planning documents...Today’s families demand creative estate planning solutions
As with most things in life, people tend to have different views of what is and is not fair or just. Such is often the case when family members disagree about estate planning matters. When personal financial gain is at stake, personal opinions tend to be strong and...
