In 2008, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.Res. 1499 (110th Congress), officially designating the third week of October as National Estate Planning Awareness Week. This resolution aims to highlight the importance of proper estate planning and encourage Americans to take steps to secure their financial and personal legacies. Many people mistakenly believe that estate […]
Monthly Archives: October 2024
When people hear the word “probate,” it often brings to mind lengthy court battles and legal headaches. While the process can be frustrating, Texas has a relatively streamlined system compared to states like California and Florida. Still, dealing with a will in court is something most people would rather avoid. So, is the Texas process […]
One of the most critical responsibilities of parents is ensuring their children’s safety and well-being, even after they are no longer around. Designating a guardian for minor children is a key part of estate planning that many overlook. Without a clear plan in place, the legal process of appointing a guardian can be time-consuming, emotionally […]
Yes, you can create a trust online in Texas. However, the trust must include specific provisions to comply with both the Texas Property Code and the Texas Tax Code to ensure it is a valid and qualifying trust. Using a generic trust form that is not tailored for Texas could lead to significant issues with […]
What Is a Revocable Living Trust? A revocable living trust is a flexible estate planning tool that allows individuals to manage their assets during their lifetime and efficiently distribute them upon death. Unlike a will, Texas law does not require that a revocable living trust be validated by a probate court, which can save time, […]
Many Texans wonder if an online will is a valid way to ensure their estate is handled according to their wishes. While it’s possible for an online will to be valid in Texas, it must meet strict legal requirements. Not all online services provide wills that comply with Texas law, and improper signing can render […]
The Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE Act), signed into law in 2019, changed how retirement accounts are treated after the account holder’s death, significantly affecting estate planning strategies. One of the biggest changes relates to how beneficiaries inherit and distribute retirement accounts, such as IRAs, which can result in a more […]
Estate Planning Isn’t Defeat: A Vital Step for Peace of Mind During Breast Cancer Breast Cancer Awareness Month reminds us of the importance of supporting those facing a life-changing diagnosis. For many individuals battling cancer, estate planning is a task that gets put off due to a fear that taking this step somehow signals giving […]