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...
Estate planning steps parents should consider after divorce
There are several estate planning changes you should consider after divorce whether you are a parent or not. These considerations can include updating your health care proxy, financial power of attorney, will, trust and beneficiary designations. The people you select...What are the easiest steps to take when creating an estate plan?
Estate planning is not a simple process for most people, despite how little their assets may be. It is often a complex system of laws, filled with clauses, exemptions, stipulations and more. How does the average person manage to create a satisfying estate plan? One...Qualities to look for when selecting the executor of your will
Deciding to make a last will and testament is a big step, but the process of drafting this document will involve making several more decisions along the way. One of those decisions involves choosing a person or entity to be the executor of your will. The executor of...A health care proxy and a living will can work in tandem
A health care proxy and a living will are both legal documents that address the type of medical care you would or would not like to receive in the event you become unable to communicate those wishes to your doctors. Although these documents are often used by those who...Four tips to help art collectors pass on their art
An art collection creates much joy for those that love art. It can also be a serious investment. So, when an art collector contemplates estate planning, what will happen to his or her collection is a serious consideration. For many it is already is a serious...What factors affect who gets the pet in divorce?
While divorce can be contentious on its own, when a beloved pet is at stake, things can turn downright nasty. While New York doesn’t have as advanced pet custody laws as some states, they have been moving in the right direction. Here’s what impacts who...Contracts in elder care facilities
The health care industry is not known for its transparency when it comes to cost. Elder care and assisted living facilities mimic hospitals in hiding, or at least not promoting, the fees and costs associated with using them. If you are considering one of these...What you should know before you plan that big gift
As part of your estate plan, you may have considered making a large gift to a loved one while you are still alive. There are many reasons to do this. Perhaps you want to help someone in need, invest in a loved one’s business or just enjoy their enjoyment of a piece of...If you wish to contest the choice for executor of an estate
If a loved one died and appointed an executor that you do not believe is up to the task, it can be difficult to speak up. However, as a beneficiary you have a right to contest the choice of executor in order to protect the estate. The importance of the right choice An...
