Many people are well aware of the financial perks of setting up a solid estate plan, such as ensuring that assets are divided in accordance with one's wishes and even helping disabled loved ones retain their eligibility for government benefits through a special needs...
Planning for estate taxes
Those engaged in the estate planning process in Washington may have learned that there are a number of strategies one can employ to avoid liabilities against their estates (thus preserving more assets to pass on to their beneficiaries). Yet many may believe that there...
What is a revocable trust?
If you are planning your estate, you probably have some options for transferring property into a trust. Of course, you may not feel comfortable completely surrendering ownership of your assets. Creating a revocable trust may be the solution. You can likely form a...
What assets skip probate?
When you pass away, probate is the legal method of transferring your assets to your beneficiaries. Assets do not always have to go through probate, however. Most people prefer not to go through probate, however, because it is a lengthy and costly process. ...
What are mistakes to avoid while making estate plans?
Making estate plans can be a complicated affair. You could forget to include an asset in your will. You might fail to take advantage of an estate planning move that could better benefit your heirs. Fortunately, if you know about some estate planning pitfalls in...
Essential documents: What you need to plan your estate
Estate planning in Washington is essential, whether you have recently started a family or have just celebrated your retirement. It is important that your estate plan reflects the life you currently live, and you can update your plan periodically in the future if...
The importance of advance directives
People who want to create or update their estate plan as their lives change, they may need to review a variety of instructions, wishes or types of documents. An estate plan may include far more than a will or a trust alone. One element of estate planning that may be...
When is probate unnecessary?
In the state of Washington, it is common that you distribute assets after a time of probate. However, in various circumstances, this legal process is not necessary. Amount of money When a person passes away and leaves an estate behind, those items and...
Special education issues: getting your child’s needs met
It is important that children get a good education, but difficulties can get in the way. Physical challenges, developmental delays and behavioral issues may put your child at an academic disadvantage. All children in America have the right to a free appropriate...
Dealing with memory loss: Is it normal?
Everyone forgets something at some point. When you begin forgetting things and you are older, it can be frightening to think you may have dementia or a condition such as Alzheimer's disease. Before you start to worry too much, you should learn more about memory loss. ...