I am often asked “If I have a will. Does it have to be probated ?” The answer to that varies with the situation. First let me define Probate. Probate is the court procedure by which a Will is proved to be valid or invalid. In current usage probate has been expanded to generally refer …
Another primary is upon us. This will be the first year without Mom and I will miss discussing the candidates with her. I had a conversation with a friend about voting, and they had never voted. So I thought I might try again to encourage folks to vote. My family has always challenged each other …
Many folks I have counseled tell me they have added a trusted adult child to their financial accounts. Their reasoning is that it gives the child access to help them. That is a perfectly reasonable step to take, but it is important to consider the ramifications, especially as it may affect federal deposit insurance for …
If you did not already realize, Texas is a buyer beware state when it comes to purchasing real estate. Thus, an Earnest Money Contract necessary in a real estate transaction. Once you have settled on a home or commercial property you want to buy and have negotiated the basic terms of the purchase, your agreement …
As we enter a new year, it is time to remind folks of there is a sunset provision that may dramatically change the estate tax. This is because while the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 doubled the gift and estate tax exemption, unless Congress acts before January 1, 2026, this exemption is scheduled …
Continue reading “Estate Tax Exemption Change is Coming (Maybe)”
When assisting my clients with their estate planning or transferring their loved one’s assets after death, I am occasionally asked about surviving spouses veterans benefits. We have a wonderful gentleman here in Walker County that helps families with VA benefits, Robert “Bob” Kane, Jr., County Veterans Services Officer. Mr. Kane provided me with information for …
The Estate Tax is Changing, Again As we approach the end of the year, it is time to remind folks of the Biden Administration’s Sensible Taxation and Equity Promotion (STEP) Act. This makes a significant change to the Federal Estate Tax set to go in place January 1, 2026. Which means, the Estate Tax is …
Continue reading “Don’t Look Now, but the Estate Tax is Changing, Again”
When Someone You Love Dies In my office, we are long on both Probate and Life Experience. Having focused my law practice on estate planning and probate, I have helped thousands with transferring their assets after a loved one passes (probate) and likewise I’ve guided thousands with drafting their estate planning documents to avoid issues …
Continue reading “A Practical Guide When Someone You Love Dies”
Think of your estate plan as a living entity that needs to evolve with the changes in your life. Various life events such as the birth of a child, children growing up, changes in the family dynamics, fluctuations in your investment portfolio, career shifts, health changes, or relocation can all impact your estate plan necessitating …
It’s never too early to start preparing for the inevitable – that one day your parents will become dependent on your support. And one of the toughest realities that you will need to face is financing your parents’ care in their old age. Here’s a short list of strategies to help your family shore …
