Understanding Trusts

Understanding Trusts

Have you considered that trusts may be best understood comparatively? Two broad columns of trusts are revocable and irrevocable. With very few exceptions, irrevocable trusts cannot be changed after they have been created, while revocable trusts can be restated as often as the grantor wishes.  Another axis for understanding trusts may be the type of beneficiary. A pot trust is a common trust for a group of beneficiaries who share the...
Three Tips For Choosing An Estate Planning Attorney

Three Tips For Choosing An Estate Planning Attorney

Have you decided to hire an attorney to help with your estate planning needs? If so, it can be a little overwhelming trying to decide what to do next. Here are three tips for choosing an estate planning attorney. The first of the three tips for choosing an estate planning attorney may be to identify your specific needs and goals. You may only need a simple will, power of attorney, and advanced healthcare directive. On the other hand, you may...
Using 529 Savings Plan as an Estate Planning Tool

Using 529 Savings Plan as an Estate Planning Tool

Most people think of a 529 Savings Plan as a college savings program, but did you know that it can be used for much more?  The funds can be used for college tuition, room and board, qualifying education expenses such as books and computers, and even certain elementary school, high school, and graduate school expenses.  A lesser known fact about 529 Plans is that they are also excellent estate planning tools. The beneficiaries of 529...
How Do I Choose An Estate Planning Attorney Near Me?

How Do I Choose An Estate Planning Attorney Near Me?

What is one of the first questions people ask, when the time comes to execute a will or trust? How do I choose an estate planning attorney near me? Attorneys abound and there are multiple options to locate an attorney, but perhaps the most important way to answer this question is to first consider what it is you are seeking to accomplish. Are you a single person about to head out on an adventure that would like the reassurance you have a will...
What If A Family Caregiver Is Not An Option?

What If A Family Caregiver Is Not An Option?

Family caregiving has become somewhat of a tradition in our country. Did you know that the AARP estimates that over 40 million Americans have stepped into the “family caregiver” role and are providing care for an aging, ill, or disabled family member? For a whole host of reasons, however, family caregiving is not always the right option.   A family member may not be willing or able to provide the necessary care due to the emotional...
Medicare Open Enrollment: Three Things Seniors Need to Know

Medicare Open Enrollment: Three Things Seniors Need to Know

Did you know that Medicare open enrollment is upon us? With Medicare open enrollment time, there may be important things seniors need to keep in mind. Here are three things seniors should know: You must have enrolled in Medicare when you were first eligible to participate in open enrollment. This means that you (1) were automatically enrolled in Medicare because you were already receiving Social Security or Railroad Retirement benefits and you...