A will is often the most important document in someone's estate plan. It serves the crucial role of explaining someone's wishes regarding their property and possibly also designating guardians to take care of their children. Someone's will outlines their last wishes...
Estate Planning
Who may want to add powers of attorney to an estate plan?
Powers of Attorney are some of the most universally beneficial estate planning resources. People can use these valuable opportunities to name someone they trust to engage in certain actions on their behalf after some kind of personal emergency. There are many...
3 compelling benefits of adding a trust to your estate plan
Many people may recognize in an abstract way that the creation of a trust could benefit them. However, they may fail to take action on that concept and will instead put off any major estate changes, possibly until it is too late. It is hard to overstate the potential...
Do you need to create advance directives for your protection?
It is shockingly easy for typically responsible adults to be irresponsible when it comes to planning their estates. Many people dislike thinking about what happens when they die, so they may avoid estate planning when they should have documents for their own...
Can you control how children use their inheritance?
As you do your estate planning, the bulk of the work you do just distribute your assets to your children. Maybe you have financial assets in investment portfolios, or maybe you're distributing physical assets from your home. It's most likely some mix of both, as you...
Do you have to worry about estate taxes in North Carolina?
Numerous factors will influence the value of your estate when you die. Your debts will have a direct impact on what you can pass on to your loved ones. Tax obligations can also reduce the value of your estate. Depending on your employment arrangements, there could be...
Does your estate plan address your debts or just your assets?
Estate planning can be an unpleasant process. You have to think about what would happen if you become very sick or if you die. You often have to spend time thinking about the worst traits and habits of the people you love, as leaving a large inheritance to someone...
Why do you need to appoint a guardian for your children?
A well-written will goes beyond making sure your assets end up in the right place. If you have minor children, your will must account for their care in case both you and your spouse die before they become adults. In the event this happens, you will need to have...
Estate planning and your aging parents: How to help
As your parents age, you may have concerns about their estate plan. While it may feel awkward stepping in and offering to assist, it’s better than sitting back and hoping that your parents have everything in order. When discussing estate planning with your aging...
Preserving a disabled child’s eligibility for benefits
Like all parents, you want nothing but great things for your child. Of course, if your child has special needs, you likely face some unique challenges. Fortunately, if your son or daughter qualifies for needs-based government benefits, you can be certain he or she can...