Like many Americans, you may think that trust funds are mostly for people with substantial wealth. However, if you own a home or other real estate in California, a trust may benefit you and your family even if you only have a modest estate. Financial planners often...
Estate Planning
What are the three types of wills in California?
After death, a probate judge determines the validity of your will. Not all types of wills are valid in every state. In California, probate courts will only accept three types of wills. Attested wills All wills must be compliant with California law. An attested will is...
Does your executor have what it takes to manage your estate?
Managing an estate is not for the faint of heart. Unfortunately, some executors end up thrust into this position of responsibility without understanding exactly how tough it is. Thus, it is important both for you and for your executor that you both understand what it...
Signs an estate plan needs updating
Most consider spending an afternoon reviewing estate planning documents an unappealing notion. The law is complex, and people are often reluctant to contemplate their mortality. That said, estate planning documents sometimes need updates and alterations. One way of...
Estate planning for out-of-state property
Estate planning should detail the transfer of ownership of all property, including homes in addition to the primary residence. When the location of vacation homes or second properties is outside the owner's state, the process can be more complicated. When creating an...
When should I start estate planning?
The financial security of your family, particularly your children, is probably of utmost importance to you. Starting an estate plan is a typical first step toward ensuring that your precious loved ones will always have the support they need. If you have heard about...
How you should manage your executor
In the event of your passing, you should put a trustworthy executor in charge of your estate. This person will take care of everything from taxes to personal property to debts. Most importantly, your executor will distribute your belongings in the way that you prefer....
Can my ex inherit from my estate after our divorce?
A divorce forces you to chart a new course. Along with the immediate ramifications of dividing finances, debt, property and time with children, you may want to consider what may happen with your estate. Now that you are no longer married, you should update your estate...
3 key components every estate plan should have
If you count yourself among the many adults in California who do not yet have an estate plan, know that you do not have to expend considerable time, energy and expense to create an effective one. Instead, many people are able to accomplish their most important estate...
How a supplemental needs trust improves a child’s quality of life
If you have a child who has a disability, you may have some deep concerns about his or her ability to work. Not being able to pursue gainful employment, of course, may lead to a lifetime of financial insecurity. Fortunately, from Medicaid to Supplemental Security...