Last week we discussed powers of attorney and although they are generally lifetime documents, some powers can be effective after death. A properly drafted financial power of attorney is an essential tool in the estate planner’s toolbelt. However, …
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Powers of Attorney Good for Life and Beyond
In estate planning, there are documents that are useable during your lifetime, documents that are only useable after death, and documents that are useable both during your lifetime and after your death. And people get them confused all the …
Top six estate planning mistakes
I have been drafting and reviewing wills, trusts, powers of attorney and other estate planning documents for more than 32 years. This week, we will be discussing the top six estate planning mistakes that I have seen while drafting and/or …
Invest in what you know and understand
Are you confused by all the terminology that is being tossed around in the financial and investing community? If so, today’s column should assist with clarifying some of the baffling language. When it comes to investing, you should stick to …
How to Make a Graceful Exit
When you came in to this world, you came in kicking and screaming, hopefully. You also came in with nothing, not even with any clothes on your back. Now you have a lot more stuff. How do you want …
Estate Planning Legal Fees
You have done your estate plan. You have a will, financial and health care powers of attorney and maybe even a trust. You know how much it cost to set it up, but did you ever think about the overall …
Caring for your Senior Self
Are you over age 60? Many studies have found a measurable slow-down in physiological systems, both physical and mental, after age 60. Studies have also shown that seniors often believe that they are doing things as well or better than …
Is Your Estate Plan Like the Rich & Famous?
Aretha Franklin died last month with an estate estimated at some $80 million, and did not leave a will or trust. Although Aretha’s four sons are her heirs-at-law entitled to her assets under state law, a niece who handled finances …
The Title of Assets Matter with Trusts
You finally have signed your trust. But hopefully, your estate plan includes more documents and instructions than your trust. In addition to your trust, you should have, at a minimum, your financial and health care powers of attorney and your …
How to Leave an Inheritance to a Child or Other Beneficiary
You have worked hard your entire life and have accumulated some savings. There will be some left after you are gone. You want to leave what’s left to your children or other loved ones. If you are like many others …