A special needs trust, in some ways, operates like any other type of trust. A person can create it when they are making their estate plan, and they can then use their assets to fund it. They can choose a beneficiary who will be able to obtain withdrawals from this...
Estate Planning
Power of attorney for mental health
Mental health challenges can be unpredictable. Whether depression, bipolar disorder or another condition, there may come a time when you are unable to make decisions for yourself. In this case, you can leverage a power of attorney (POA) for mental health to offer...
What is a pour-over will?
A pour-over will is a special type of will that works alongside a living trust. It ensures that any assets you own at the time of your death that you haven't already placed into the trust are "poured over" into it. If you have a trust in place, a pour-over will acts...
Consider these estate planning steps after a sudden windfall
An unexpected bonanza, whether from an inheritance, lottery winnings or a lucrative business deal, is undeniably life-changing. You may feel like running out and celebrating with a luxury purchase like an expensive car. A celebration may be warranted, but remember to...
Why it’s crucial to choose the right health care agent
In some previous blog posts, we’ve discussed the importance of including an advance health care directive in your estate plan. This allows you to legally codify your wishes for what kind of measures you want taken if you’re critically injured or ill and unable to...
Can a generation-skipping trust lower your estate tax bill?
An estate plan serves multiple purposes, but one of its primary aims is the protection of your assets. Therefore, a comprehensive plan will use various tools to preserve more of your wealth for future generations. Part of wealth preservation is lowering your tax bill...
What makes someone the right guardian for your children?
Most parents raise their children and see them step out into the adult world to pursue life on their own terms. However, in the unfortunate event that you and your child’s other parent were to die before your children turn 18, someone else would need to take legal...
Preserve generational wealth in your estate plan
All over the globe, there are sayings in various languages that roughly translate to “rags to rags in three generations.” What this means is that the first generation works hard and earns bundles of money, which the second generation subsequently squanders, leaving...
Understanding asset protection trusts
An asset protection trust is designed to protect your wealth from creditors and lawsuits. When you establish an asset protection trust, it is irrevocable. This means that the money and possessions covered by it may not be removed or withdrawn. Therefore, if you are...
Dealing with a valuable art collection in your estate plan
Estate planning for an art collection requires careful consideration to ensure your cherished pieces are handled according to your wishes. Many do not give it much thought, assuming it will stay in the family, but when the collection contains valuable pieces,...




