Estate planning can seem simple and complex at the same time. On the one hand, your loved one’s estate plan distributes your assets to your loved ones. On the other hand, many nuances can make a simple will more complex. An estate plan distributes what your loved one...
Estate Administration & Probate
What happens during probate?
The word probate has a negative connotation for many people, but that is usually due to rumors they hear about the process and not their actual experience with it. In most cases, probate is not something to fear. It is actually quite helpful. According to California...
Paying bills too quickly: A common probate mistake
As the executor of a will, it goes without saying that you will want to make all the right decisions in a timely manner. Unfortunately, this can lead to a situation in which you get ahead of yourself. It's a common mistake to pay bills too quickly. While you don't...
What are the biggest challenges facing executors?
If you find yourself the executor of a will or trust, you know that you have been staffed with a big responsibility. While there are many steps you need to take to push the process forward, you don't want to get too far ahead of yourself. Unfortunately, you could be...
Can a debt collector contact you after a loved one dies?
When a loved one passes away, it goes without saying that it will take quite some time to get your life back on track. As you grieve, you may be responsible for tackling a variety of tasks. Don't be surprised if a debt collector contacts you in an attempt to discuss a...
What are the top mistakes made by executors?
Serving as an estate executor is easier said than done. This may appear simple and straightforward on the surface, but things can soon become complicated if you don't know what you are doing. Here are some of the top mistakes made by executors: -- Paying bills right...
It’s good to know what happens in probate
As you create an estate plan, you may want to learn more about the probate process. If nothing else, you should learn what happens and where you fit in. Although every situation is unique, probating an estate typically includes the following: -- Collecting all probate...
Create a special needs trust for peace of mind
Are you currently caring for a child or another loved one who has special needs? Do you worry about what will happen to this person once you pass on? If you have these types of concerns, it's important to learn more about the benefits of a special needs trust. This...
Power of attorney planning
When it comes to estate planning, there is never a good time to hesitate. Instead, every detail, no matter how big or small, should be taken care of without delay. There are many strategies to consider, with many people focusing strongly on the use of a power of...
Choosing a trustee means focusing on these overlooked details
Creating a trust may be the best decision you ever make from an estate planning perspective. However, before the process can be completed, you need to choose a trustee. This is the person responsible for carrying out the details of the trust upon your death. Many...