Estate planning is not just for seniors. Ideally, as soon as you turn eighteen you should have some version of an estate plan because your parents are no longer automatically able to make decisions or act on your behalf. There are several reasons to create a power of attorney for finances once you turn eighteen. For example, the military helps…
Natalie scrunched up the letter in her hand and tossed it into the trash. “Thanks for nothing, Uncle Fred.” Her husband, John, frowned. “Bad news?” Natalie shrugged. “Remember when Uncle Fred said he was going to pay the college tuition for all his nieces and nephews?” “Sure, we figured that into our financial plan. It will be a big help.”…
Now that we’ve settled into somewhat of a new normal for the time being, people are thinking about getting things in order. There is still a sense of urgency, but many are taking the time to review their estate plans to make sure everything is in place, or are taking steps to put a new plan in place. In California,…
Our clients understand the importance of estate planning. In this time of COVID-19, many people are also feeling a sense of urgency. It is important to remember, though, that the plan is only the beginning. A surprising number of our clients discover, after the death of a family member, that an asset that should have been transferred to the trust…
Jean opened the envelope that contained her aunt’s will and began to laugh. “Oh, Aunt Sarah. You and your post-it notes.” She shook her head. Jean pulled out the document. The entire front page was covered in small yellow squares of paper. “Guess she changed her mind, a few times.” Her sister, Joan, frowned. “What a mess. How are we…
Elder abuse is a common topic and we hear frequent warnings about scams by caregivers, email and telephone scams, and even being taken advantage of by children or grandchildren. While marrying for money is not a new concept, it is quickly spreading into the area of elder abuse. Caregivers, or people wanting to get close to an elderly person with…
Divorce, remarriage, and blending families are treacherous enough waters to navigate, let alone wondering if all sides of your family will get along when you die. Those are all critical junctures to update your estate plan, whether it be a trust, a will, power of attorney, health care directive, or just beneficiary designations. If all aspects of your estate plan…