Are There Less Restrictive Alternatives to Guardianship
Although laws vary from state to state, every state requires that less restrictive alternatives be considered before invoking a guardianship. These might include such vehicles as limited guardianships, powers of attorney or assisted decision-making agreements.
The Most Important Part of Estate Plan Is Planning for Life
Does a person need a Power of Attorney document if that person already has a Last Will and Testament (‘Will’)? It is a good question.
What’s the Latest with Aretha Franklin’s Estate?
Aretha Franklin’s long-standing $7.8 million debt to the Internal Revenue Service has been paid in full, her estate says in a new court filing.
How Do I Talk to My Parents About Estate Planning?
If you have a parent over the age of, say, 65, thoughts about their future may have started to creep into your mind. But because end-of-life planning can be emotional and overwhelming, it’s tempting to put these conversations off — and even more pleasing to avoid them altogether. If there’s a lesson to be learned from the pandemic, however, it’s that waiting until the last minute to prepare is seldom a good idea.
What are My Responsibilities if I’m Named an Executor?
If a loved one asks you to be the executor of their estate, think carefully before you take on this responsibility. While you have the option of declining the request, the person reaching out likely considers you to be responsible and detail oriented. An executor of an estate typically helps file paperwork, close accounts and distribute the assets of the deceased.
What If an Estate Owes Back Taxes?
My mother passed, and she was an administrator of my grandfather’s estate and the inheritances. The estate accumulated quite a bit of back taxes over the years. Will the IRS put a lien on that estate as well as hers to retrieve funds?
Why are Siblings Battling over Mom’s Estate?
A 14-year-long legal fight among five siblings over a Queens woman’s estate has gotten so nasty that it landed two elderly sisters in jail, and now one of them may lose her home.
When Do I Need to Review My Will?
Whether you drew up a will recently or years ago, keep in mind it’s generally not something you can set and forget.
What are Biggest Blunders in Wealth Transfer?
We are approaching the biggest wealth transfer ever, as Baby Boomers prepare to hand off their life savings to their heirs. However, will their heirs actually get the full amount of the wealth intended for them…or will a large amount be lost to unnecessary taxes?
Do I Need More than a Will?
You should be aware of what a will can’t or shouldn’t do.