Wills

Estate planning conversations can be challenging if you and your loved one have different points of view about your future and the legacy you will leave behind. There is a lot to process with many emotional topics.

Estate planning is making a plan in advance, naming the people or organizations you want to receive the things you own after you die, and taking steps now to make carrying out your plan as easy as possible later.

A simple trust or will, a durable power of attorney, and a medical power of attorney are important estate planning documents for young adults.

The estate planning needs of same-sex couples are not much different from those of opposite-sex couples. Learn the three estate planning steps to take now.

A basic estate plan is essential for everyone. At a minimum, everyone should have three estate planning items in place: an up-to-date will or trust, a durable power of attorney, and updated beneficiary forms.

An estate plan, properly executed, can protect you as well as your family in the event of sickness, accidents, or untimely death. This eight-point checklist can help determine whether your estate plan needs help.

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Here are some of the more common reasons why we procrastinate about estate planning—and some information that just might get you moving.

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Probate is the court-supervised process for validating a will, paying valid debts and taxes, and transferring certain assets after someone dies. Probate is not always expensive or complicated, but many families want to limit court involvement, protect privacy, or make it easier for loved ones to receive assets. 

The best way to plan for probate is not to rely on one document. Instead, match each asset with the transfer method that best fits your family, your goals, and the laws in your state.

Life estates are typically used to keep property from being transferred through the process of probate.

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Depending on the laws of your state, handwritten notes to a will may qualify as a valid testamentary disposition.

Joint accounts are a popular estate planning option because they allow the quick transfer of assets after the death of one or more of the joint owners.

The state laws that govern estate planning documents such as wills, trusts, medical directives, and powers of attorney are different in every state.

Learn about some of the estate planning documents that all young adults (18+) should have.

Learn about what changes to your estate plan should be completed and considered when planning for your divorce.

A pour-over will is necessary in the event that you do not fully or properly fund your trust.