Receiving an inheritance is both an honor and a responsibility, and estate planning attorneys constantly see individuals who are just not ready to take that on appropriately. Unlike items of sentimental value, such as jewelry or family heirlooms, a financial inheritance was likely meant to be
Responsibilities and Obligations of Personal Representatives
When a person dies with a Will in place, a Personal Representative or Executor is named as the responsible individual for winding down the decedent's affairs. In situations in which a Will has not been prepared, the probate court will appoint someone to that role. Whether you have been named or
What to Do after a Loved One Passes Away
The loss of a loved one is a difficult time, often made more stressful when one has to handle the affairs of the deceased. Certain tasks must be completed to administer the estate of the deceased. This may be a great undertaking or rather minimal work, depending upon the level of estate planning
Problems with Joint Accounts as Vehicle for Inheritance
When deciding who will inherit your assets after you die, it is important to consider that you might outlive the beneficiary you choose. If you have added someone to your financial accounts to ensure that he or she receives this asset after you die, you might be concerned about what will happen
The Difference Between Estate Tax and Inheritance Tax
While the terms "estate tax" and "inheritance tax" are often used interchangeably, they are not synonymous. Let's try to clarify the difference. Estate Tax Estate tax is based on the net value of the deceased owner's property. An estate tax is applied to these assets when they are transferred
Role of the Successor Trustee
When creating a living trust, it is common practice that the person doing the estate planning will name themselves as trustee and will appoint a successor trustee to handle matters once they pass on or become incapacitated. If you have been named successor trustee for a person that has died, it is
Planning for Your Final Sendoff
Although most people don’t like to think about it, death is inevitable. It’s imperative that you have an estate plan in place that outlines your end of life wishes and how you would like your assets distributed upon your passing. As part of your planning, it’s important that you consider and make
Costs Associated with Dying Without a Will
When someone dies without a will, it is known as dying intestate. In such cases, state law (of the state in which the person resides) governs how the person's estate is administered. In most states, the individual's assets are split -- with one third of the estate going to the spouse and all
Preserving and Protecting Documents Is Part of Healthy Estate Planning
In the unsettled time after a loved one’s death, imagine the added stress on the family if the loved one died without a will or any instructions on distributing his or her assets. Now, imagine the even greater stress to grieving survivors if they know a will exists but they cannot find it! It is