A: The answer depends on how much money was in the account! If the amount is under $166,250, then yes, you can most likely submit to the bank what we call a “Small Estate Affidavit” to collect the proceeds. Remember, if there is a will that states who the account...
When you start the estate planning process in California, you're not just planning for your family's future: You're also making important legal and medical decisions that could greatly influence your final years. For this reason, it's important to establish...
A: Here is a helpful checklist of things to stay on top of: 1: Take inventory of your digital assets 2: Add digital heirs to your accounts 3: Plan to pass on your passwords 4: Record your stories - hereafter.ai is a great website to check out to preserve your...
A: We have heard a number of our clients voice this concern over the years, and the short answer is yes, you will have 100% absolute control over all of your decisions, all of your finances, and all of your assets with a revocable trust! A revocable trust means that...
Today, in part 2 of our blog series on estate planning “New Year’s Resolutions”, we are discussing the importance of keeping your estate plan updated, specifically your trust. First, as a reminder of why living trust are so valuable (versus just a will): by creating a...
It is very common and understandable for people to set up their estate plan assuming all the people you want to leave money to are still living at the time of your own death. However, far too many court battles have taken place due to a lack of contingency planning,...
With 2021 around the corner, we wanted to give you a quick New Year’s Resolution to make sure your estate plan is up to date moving forward. Today we are covering what we refer to as the incapacity plan, which consists of the financial durable power of attorney, the...
“I’m too young.” “I don’t want to think about death.” “My kids get along well, so there won’t be a fight over my estate.” “Estate planning is expensive.” “My estate isn’t big enough to warrant an estate plan.” “It’s a lot of work.” “I don’t know why I need one.”...
A: Because no one knows what type of medical treatment you want more than you do! Having an advance directive in place ensures that your wishes regarding your health care are carried out, even when you're unable to make your wishes known. In fact, in the absence of a...
When planning their estate, many people in California wonder if they should include their children in their will or trust. Some parents view their estate as their final gift to their children. However, some parents fear that leaving a large sum of money to their...
