As explained by U.S. News & World Report, all wills must go through probate. However, with a legally binding document and an executor in place, the process usually progresses smoothly. Trouble arises when family members challenge a will, in which case the court...
Whether you previously created an estate plan or not, when your child is born, it is time to put one in place that accounts for the new changes to your life. Per Kiplinger, many aspects of your estate plan may warrant renewed attention once you have a child. Once you...
If you should become incapacitated due to a stroke or injuries from a car crash, who will take over and manage your healthcare and day-to-day financial needs? Having powers of attorney in place provides peace of mind when unanticipated medical and financial situations...
Choosing someone to handle the fiduciary representation of your estate is a serious decision. You have to take your time to choose someone who you fully trust and who can adequately handle the responsibilities. According to the American Bar Association, fiduciary...
One important element of the estate planning process in Texas involves recognizing those opportunities where one can limit the liabilities facing their estates. Most assume, however, that taxes are one expense they cannot avoid. Yet that may not be the case. First and...
Following the reading of a will, perhaps you felt deeply disappointed about what your relative did or did not leave to you. You may believe the inheritance is not consistent with what he once told you he wanted you to have. Should you challenge the will? Here are...
Agreeing to oversee someone's estate means a lot of important responsibilities rest on your shoulders. Whoever entrusted you with their life's savings must have thought highly of your integrity, experience and reliability. Understanding your responsibilities can help...
Experts suggest that you review your estate plan every three or so years. This can feel like a monumental task, especially if you have a detailed and lengthy estate plan. But fortunately, you do not need to review the entirety of it every time. In fact, there are...
A primary goal of many estate planners is to help their heirs avoid probate. Avoiding probate can save your heirs a lot of frustration. Additionally, some people do not care for the very public nature of probate. One potential way to avoid your home going through...
Texans with disabilities are often eligible for public benefits, such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income. To qualify for these and other programs, though, a person must have limited income. Using your estate plan to gift funds directly to a relative who has a...