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 […]
Many people believe that trust planning is only necessary for those with large estates, but this is far from the truth. Trusts are valuable regardless of the amount of wealth you have. While estate size can matter, especially when it comes to estate tax planning, most trusts are set up for reasons that have nothing […]
You might wonder, “If the law already dictates that my loved ones will inherit my property under intestate succession, why bother with a will or trust?” While intestate succession laws in Texas do ensure that certain family members inherit, relying on those laws alone can lead to delays, higher costs, and unintended complications. Creating a […]
When planning your estate, choosing the right tool to ensure your assets pass smoothly to your heirs is crucial. For real estate, many people consider a Ladybird Deed. While a Ladybird Deed can be effective for simple transfers, it has significant limitations compared to a trust. This article will explain why a trust is often […]
When planning for the future, it’s important to consider estate tax, especially when you intend to pass on significant assets. Understanding how these taxes work, the current laws in Texas, and how they might affect your estate is crucial to ensuring that your loved ones are not burdened with unexpected tax liabilities. What Is Estate […]