Both living wills and powers of attorney can be used when creating an estate plan. Often, these are both set up to address future medical decisions. Though similar in focus, these documents both approach the issue much differently. With a living will, the goal is...
Estate planning
Leaving an inheritance to a beneficiary with special needs
If you have a family member with special needs, you may certainly want to include them when you make your estate plan. You may know that they have a limited income, for example, or none at all. Leaving them an inheritance can be life-changing. The money may mean more...
Can your beneficiaries get your estate executor removed?
If this is the year you’ve committed to putting your estate plan in place, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing your personal representative (commonly known as an executor). This is the person who will be in charge of administering your estate,...
Estate planning tips to safeguard your assets as a senior
Estate planning is one of the most important steps seniors can take to protect their assets, family and future wishes. While many people delay the process, having a clear estate plan can reduce confusion and stress for loved ones later in life. A well-prepared estate...
2 ways financial assets can skip probate
When you pass away, many of your assets are going to go through probate. But it is important to remember that not all of them are bound by this process. There are some assets that can skip probate entirely, often by transferring out of your possession upon your...
3 signs it may be time to review and update an estate plan
Maryland estate plans help protect dependent family members and create a legacy for people who die. They can also outline medical preferences and grant legal authority to other adults in emergency scenarios. Estate plans may retain their authority indefinitely, but...
Add a spendthrift trust to your estate plan
When doing your estate planning, you may come to realize that certain heirs may need more restrictions placed on their future inheritances. While spendthrift trusts won’t be needed by every estate planner, they can come in handy for heirs who struggle with money...
What makes a durable power of attorney distinct?
Every person creating an estate plan has different needs. They have the option of creating numerous documents based on their family circumstances and personal resources. People creating their estate plans also typically need to think about emergency scenarios where...
Is it time to update your estate plan?
If you have an estate plan, it is excellent that you have taken steps to give your family guidance when it comes to distributing your assets, determining what type of medical care you need and things of this nature. Drafting a plan well in advance can help to avoid...
Using life insurance to fund a special needs trust
Worrying about a special needs family member is natural. Parents, grandparents and even siblings may want to take steps to ensure that a family member with special needs has financial support for the rest of their life. A special needs trust that addresses long-term...
