A living trust is an estate planning tool that allows you to manage and distribute your assets while living and after you pass away. Creating a living trust is wise, but you must fund it to have it operate as desired. In other words, an empty living trust is no good...
Estate Planning
How to update your will
Your will is not effective until you die. This means you can update it when circumstances change in your life. But since it's a legal document, you have to make changes following the right procedures. You can legally update your will using two methods: Writing a new...
Including a caregiver in your will requires some planning
If you’re like many California seniors, you rely on a paid in-home caregiver or maybe a friend or neighbor to help you out with things you’re no longer able to do for yourself. You may even have more contact with that caregiver than with your adult children –...
Tips for storing and preserving your estate planning documents
A comprehensive estate plan is undeniably essential for you and your heirs. Like most people, you probably spent a lot of time considering how to structure your plan. Now that you have an estate plan that meets your needs, you want to ensure it remains safe and...
Should you discuss your will with your heirs?
Creating a will is very important. By setting aside time and resources to create a will, you are taking proactive steps to safeguard your legacy and loved ones’ future. Without a will, California intestacy laws would swing into action to determine what should happen...
Addressing family heirlooms in your estate plan
Estate planning can be very complicated, and it’s important to remember that it’s about more than just passing on financial assets. In fact, dividing financial assets may be much easier than dividing family heirlooms and items with sentimental value. The problem with...
What are the basic components of an estate plan?
Estate planning is a process that allows individuals to protect their assets and help ensure their wishes are carried out after their passing. By understanding the fundamental components of an estate plan, you can create a solid foundation for your own one. This can...
When might you change the guardian for your children?
When drafting your estate plan, you will include wishes for your minor children should you die or become incapacitated. A guardianship designation is the document you need to do this. Your chosen party will raise your kid(s) should anything happen to you. However, in...
It’s important to revisit your estate plan after losing a spouse
There’s nothing that can prepare you for losing your spouse. Even if they were suffering from a lengthy illness, it’s devastating and the grief can feel overwhelming. The last thing you want to do is plan for a life without them. Having to make decisions about what...
Estate planning tips for first responders
Estate planning for first responders requires a specialized focus due to their unique career risks. Their jobs often involve life-threatening situations, making it imperative to have detailed, robust plans to protect their loved ones and their assets. Given the...