Texas law does not require you to have a will to pass your estate on to your heirs. However, for most people, it is a good idea to have one anyway. Why do you need a will as part of your estate plan? What is a will? A will is a legal document that specifies what you...
Creating an estate plan feels like a lot of hard work, time and effort when you first get started. Make no mistake, though: this is a lengthy process with no true "end". Though you can get the bulk of the work done and out of the way early, it is not a simple...
If you name someone a guardian in Texas, or if someone names you a guardian, know that the designation is not necessarily set in stone. State law not only provides a priority list for choosing a guardian but also, specifies factors that may render a person ineligible...
When planning your estate, you have to consider all of your children, stepchildren and other heirs you may include within your estate plan. One of the biggest mistakes some parents make is treating all kids equally. While you may want to be fair to your children,...
A loved one named you the executor of her or his estate, and you accepted the role and its responsibilities. You want to learn how to take proper care of the estate and its beneficiaries, which may involve settling debts. The Federal Trade Commission explains how to...
When a close friend or family member names you the executor over his or her Texas estate, you have a duty to act in this individual’s interests and otherwise follow all guidelines and deadlines associated with the probate process. The role requires a considerable...
Your estate plan may not be one of the first things on your mind when adjusting to life in a new state. However, as a new Texas resident, you should consider updating it. Which documents should you update? Will There are Texas laws you can take advantage of to make...
Having a will is one of the most effective ways to reduce Texas probate costs and avoid dissension among your beneficiaries. Depending on the size and scope of your property, you can give your loved one's peace of mind by adding trusts, a power of attorney and advance...
After naming a will executor, a person hopes the candidate accepts the role and its responsibilities. When things do not work out, the individual may need to choose a new executor. SmartAsset explains how to change an executor and when to do so. Estate plans sometimes...
The estate planning process is something that can be easy to put off indefinitely. Still, if you want to have some control over what happens to your assets, you probably want to get started as soon as possible. In addition to writing a will, you may want to set up a...