The best estate plan possible doesn't just list someone's assets and name the people who should inherit those resources. Estate plans can also address future needs, including the possibility of incapacity later in life. A medical emergency like a stroke could put...
Estate Planning
3 possible ways to minimize estate tax hardships for your family
Possessing wealth and high-value assets can be a double-edged sword in many cases. While they offer financial security, they can also create tax complexities for your loved ones when you pass away. Effective estate planning helps reduce your taxable estate,...
6 times you need to update your estate plan
Getting your estate plans in order is a major milestone for a lot of people. In fact, only about 33% of people in this country ever get around to it – so you’re already ahead of the game. However, an estate plan should never be something that you create, tuck in a...
How can you pass your home to your adult children?
Transferring ownership of a home in California to adult children is a significant decision that involves various legal and financial considerations. Because your home is such a valuable asset, it’s imperative that you do this in a way that makes it easiest for them to...
Benefits of a POD account
A Payable On Death account, or a POD account, gives you a new option to transfer assets to others. You name a beneficiary on a bank account or another eligible financial account. When you pass away, the beneficiary provides the death certificate or notice to the...
How can you ask your parents about estate planning?
It can be difficult for parents and children to have a conversation about estate planning. Some people feel uncomfortable talking about the end of their life. Others feel uncomfortable talking about money and financial assets. But it’s still an important conversation...
6 mistakes to avoid when creating an estate plan
Estate planning is crucial for securing your legacy and ensuring your wishes are honored. However, several mistakes can undermine your intentions and create complications for your heirs. Avoiding these common mistakes can save your beneficiaries time, money and...
Who makes an effective estate executor?
Managing an estate is a critical aspect of handling a person's affairs after they pass away. This is especially true in California where the laws and regulations can be intricate and demanding. An essential person in this process is the estate executor. This...
What you should know about California’s next-of-kin law
This year, California enacted a “next-of-kin” law that allows medical facilities to designate a surrogate to speak and make decisions for a patient who is in a condition where they’re unable to speak for themselves. The law applies only when a patient has no advance...
3 questions to ask when planning your estate
Many people make estate plans. An estate plan helps people instruct how their assets are distributed after they pass away. Here are a few common questions you may need to ask as you proceed through the estate planning process. 1. What is an heir and beneficiary? A...