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# The Leydorf Law Firm, PLLC

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## Posts

- [How long after someone dies do you have to probate a will?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-long-after-someone-dies-do-you-have-to-probate-a-will/) - When a loved one passes away, families face numerous legal and administrative tasks during an already difficult time. One of the most pressing questions involves probate timing: how quickly must you act to ensure the deceased person's will goes through the proper legal process? Michigan law provides specific timeframes for probate proceedings, and understanding these
- [When Should Someone Start Estate Planning?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/when-should-someone-start-estate-planning/) - Most people think estate planning is something they'll get to "someday." They picture it as a task for the wealthy or elderly, something to consider after retirement or when health problems arise. But the truth is, estate planning should begin much earlier than most people realize, and waiting too long can create unnecessary complications for
- [What Are the Biggest Mistakes People Make With Their Will?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-are-the-biggest-mistakes-people-make-with-their-will/) - Creating a will ranks among the most important legal documents you'll ever sign, yet it's where we see people make some truly costly errors. After years of helping families navigate probate and estate disputes, certain patterns emerge. Some mistakes cost thousands in legal fees. Others tear families apart for generations. Most people understand they need
- [Building a Wall Around Your Wealth: Estate, Business, and Creditor Protection Planning](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/building-a-wall-around-your-wealth-estate-business-and-creditor-protection-planning/) - Protecting wealth requires more than just accumulating assets. Smart planning creates multiple layers of protection that shield your financial legacy from creditors, lawsuits, and unexpected financial disasters. Comprehensive estate planning forms the foundation of wealth protection, but sophisticated clients need strategies that go beyond basic wills and trusts. The integration of business structures, asset protection
- [Why Selling a Home Too Soon for Nursing Home Care Can Be Costly](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/why-selling-a-home-too-soon-for-nursing-home-care-can-be-costly/) - When a loved one needs nursing home care, the emotional weight of that moment is already enormous. Families in East Lansing, Okemos, Mason, and communities throughout Ingham County are suddenly navigating medical decisions, care transitions, and financial concerns all at once. In the middle of that stress, selling the family home can feel like the
- [What are the Do's and Don'ts of Medicaid Planning?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-are-the-dos-and-donts-of-medicaid-planning/) - Medicaid planning represents one of the most complex areas of elder law, requiring careful navigation of federal regulations and state-specific requirements. Families throughout Michigan face difficult decisions when a loved one needs long-term care, often discovering that nursing home costs can quickly deplete a lifetime of savings. When families find themselves in crisis situations, understanding
- [Inspiring Conversations with Nick Leydorf of Leydorf Law Firm](https://voyagemichigan.com/interview/inspiring-conversations-with-nick-leydorf-of-leydorf-law-firm#new_tab) - Today we'd like to introduce you to Nick Leydorf. Hi Nick, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story? My origin story is less 'I always knew I'd be an attorney' and more 'I accidentally became the person who explains complicated things for a living.
- [What is Medicaid Spend Down?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-is-medicaid-spend-down/) - If you're approaching retirement age or caring for an aging parent, understanding how Medicaid eligibility works becomes crucial for long-term care planning. One of the most misunderstood aspects of Medicaid qualification involves the "spend down" process, a complex set of rules that can dramatically impact your family's financial future. The spend down process often requires
- [How Reverse Mortgages Affect the Probate Process in Michigan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-reverse-mortgages-affect-the-probate-process-in-michigan/) - When a Michigan homeowner passes away, the estate often includes real property. If that property is subject to a reverse mortgage, the probate process becomes more complex. Heirs,executors, and even creditors must navigate a unique set of rules that differ from a traditional mortgage. Below, we’ll break down how reverse mortgages work in Michigan, what
- [Estate Planning in East Lansing: Protecting Your Family’s Future Right Here at Home](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/estate-planning-east-lansing-protecting-family-future/) - Discover the importance of estate planning in East Lansing, MI. Learn how Leydorf Law Firm can help protect your family's future with personalized estate plans tailored to your needs.
- [How Giving Back Can Be a Part of Your Estate Plan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-giving-back-can-be-a-part-of-your-estate-plan/) - When people think about estate planning, their first thought is usually how to provide for family members. However, many believe part of their legacy also includes giving back to their community or supporting causes they care about. One way to accomplish this is through a charitable trust. This is a tool that allows individuals to
- [The Role of Digital Assets in Estate Planning](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/the-role-of-digital-assets-in-estate-planning/) - When most people think about estate planning, they picture houses, cars, and bank accounts. Traditionally estate planning has focused on transferring tangible property and financial assets to beneficiaries after death. However, in today’s world, a growing share of personal and financial value is tied to digital assets. From cryptocurrency wallets to photo storage accounts, digitalproperty
- [How Can High-Risk Professionals Protect Their Assets?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-can-high-risk-professionals-protect-their-assets/) - For professionals like doctors, dentists, and other high-income individuals whose careers place them at elevated risk of being sued, safeguarding personal assets is not just prudent but essential. A single lawsuit, even if ultimately unsuccessful, can jeopardize years of hard-earned wealth. Fortunately, there are legal tools and strategies that allow high-risk professionals to protect their
- [How Do Business Owners Set Themselves Up to Avoid Probate Upon Death?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-do-business-owners-set-themselves-up-to-avoid-probate-upon-death/) - When you own a business, your hard work, assets, and relationships represent years of effort. The last thing most entrepreneurs want is for their business to get stuck in probate court after they pass away. Probate can freeze accounts, delay operations, and create stress for family members and business partners at the very moment stability
- [How to Settle Inherited Property Disputes Among Siblings](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-to-settle-inherited-property-disputes-among-siblings/) - When a loved one passes away, it’s not uncommon for emotions to run high, especially when it comes to dividing property. One of the most common sources of conflict during probate involves real estate that multiple siblings inherit together. Whether it’s a family home, a cabin up north, or a rental property in Lansing, disagreements
- [The Importance of Keeping Your Beneficiary Designations Up-to-Date in East Lansing, Michigan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/beneficiary-designations-east-lansing/) - Learn why updating beneficiary designations is crucial. Life changes can lead to severe consequences if your designations are outdated.
- [The Risks of Creating Your Own Estate Plan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/the-risks-of-creating-your-own-estate-plan/) - We call it the brother-in-law syndrome: your brother-in-law knows everything, even though he doesn’t. He tells anyone who’ll listen how much money he’s saved by doing things himself. Sadly, it’s the family who has to make things right after the do-it-yourself estate plan fails. This is the message from a recent article titled “Dangers of
- [How Does a Lady Bird or Enhanced Life Estate Deed Work in East Lansing, Michigan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-does-a-lady-bird-or-enhanced-life-estate-deed-work-in-east-lansing-michigan/) - Estate planning is all about making thoughtful decisions now to protect your assets and your loved ones later when you can no longer exercise control. Whether you're thinking about tax efficiency, probate avoidance, or long-term Medicaid care, the tools you choose matter. For Michigan homeowners, one such tool worth exploring is the Lady Bird deed.
- [5 Signs It’s Time to Update Your Estate Plan in East Lansing](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/5-signs-its-time-to-update-your-estate-plan-in-east-lansing/) - Estate plans are not something you set up once and forget about. They should change as your life changes. Many people make an estate plan and never look at it again. That can lead to confusion and stress later on. Updating your plan from time to time helps keep your wishes clear and up to
- [How Medicaid Planning Works in Lansing](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-medicaid-planning-works-in-lansing/) - With costs of long-term care, assisted living facilities, and nursing homes constantly increasing, more people have turned to government programs like Medicaid to afford the cost of care. However, Medicaid has strict financial eligibility rules that many people cannot meet—even those who cannot afford the care they need without government assistance. Medicaid planning provides a
- [Will I Live Longer, if I Babysit the Grandchildren?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/will-i-live-longer-if-i-babysit-the-grandchildren/) - Research supports the notion that grandparents can live longer if they babysit the grandchildren benefiting both parents and child.
- [Here’s Why You Need an Estate Plan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/heres-why-you-need-an-estate-plan/) - Trust and estate planning can help most families avoid this and ensure the transition of wealth and property in a smooth manner.
- [Can You Believe Aging Parents Grow Stubborn and They Know It?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/can-you-believe-aging-parents-grow-stubborn-and-they-know-it/) - Aging parents grow stubborn, and researchers are uncovering the reasons why. Differing goals of children and parents is a primary one.
- [Communication is Key in Generational Estate Planning](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/why-is-communication-important-in-generational-estate-planning/) - The goal of estate planning is transferring assets in an orderly and tax-efficient manner, it’s just as important to preserve wealth across generations.
- [Understanding Estate Planning Through Barbara Walters’ Legacy](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/who-inherits-tv-broadcaster-barbara-walters-estate/) - Read more about Barbara Walters and her estate plan.
- [Transfer on Death Isn’t Always a Smart Estate Planning Strategy](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/transfer-on-death-isnt-always-a-smart-estate-planning-strategy/) - The Transfer on-Death (TOD) and Payable-on-Death (POD) accounts offer an easy way to avoid probate, but they can also derail an estate plan if not coordinated properly. Learn more about the potential pitfalls in this article.
- [Planning for Long-Term Care and Taxes](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/planning-for-long-term-care-and-taxes/) - Retirement brings about several risks, including longevity, market risk, and inflation. Learn how to balance long-term care planning and taxes to ensure a healthy financial future for you and your heirs in this Kiplinger article.
- [How Do Inheritance and Estate Taxes Work?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-do-inheritance-and-estate-taxes-work/) - Learn how to reduce your estate tax and inheritance tax liability using trusts, annual gift tax limits, and Family Limited Partnerships. Read this article from The Alliance Times-Herald to ensure your assets pass to the next generation with minimal tax burden.
- [Planning for Long-Term Care with Irrevocable Trusts](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/planning-for-long-term-care-with-irrevocable-trusts/) - Learn about the flexibility provided by Intentionally Defective Grantor Trusts (IDGTs) and the benefits of including both lifetime beneficiaries and after-death beneficiaries in the trust. Read this article from The News-Enterprise to understand how to protect your assets while maintaining flexibility.
- [Why Is ‘When’ the Big Question in Estate Planning?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/why-is-when-the-big-question-in-estate-planning/) - Retirement planning requires a focus on timing. Learn about the role timing plays in required minimum distributions, converting to a Roth account, claiming Social Security, and wealth transfer in this Kiplinger article.
- [Do Heirs Have to Pay Debts from an Estate?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/do-heirs-have-to-pay-debts-from-estate/) - Debts in a person’s estate are payable from the decedent’s assets in the course of administering their estate.
- [Prepare Now for Coming Estate Tax Changes](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/prepare-now-for-coming-estate-tax-changes/) - One of the most significant changes Americans will soon see is the sunsetting of tax laws under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017.
- [Preparing Your Adult Child for Independence](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/preparing-for-your-adult-child-independence/) - Click here to learn which legal documents are needed to prepare for your adult child's independence to start the next phase of their life.
- [What’s the Latest in Aretha Franklin’s Estate?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/whats-the-latest-aretha-franklin-estate/) - Learn from Aretha Franklin's estate battle. Keep your family from fighting over inheritance with comprehensive planning.
- [Which Is the Best to Way Protect Assets, Trusts or Wills?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/which-is-the-best-to-way-protect-assets-trusts-or-wills/) - Okemos asset protection attorney Nick Leydorf will help you understand whether a will, trust, or both are best for your family.
- [How Does a Michigan Domestic Asset Protection Trust Protect Generational Wealth?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-does-a-domestic-asset-protection-trust-protect-generational-wealth/) - A Michigan Domestic Asset Protection Trust is especially helpful for professionals and business owners. Click to learn more!
- [Avoid These Common Retirement Planning Mistakes for a Secure Retirement](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/avoid-common-retirement-planning-mistakes-for-secure-retirement/) - Don't let common retirement planning mistakes derail your future. Learn how to avoid them and secure your nest egg for a worry-free retirement.
- [Important Estate Planning Documents in Michigan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/important-estate-planning-documents-in-michigan/) - Learn which estate planning tool best for you: managing complex assets with a trust or ensuring a straightforward asset distribution with a will.
- [Michigan Continues Fight Against Elder Abuse](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/michigan-continues-fight-against-elder-abuse/) - A webform has been updated for residents to report suspected incidents of elder abuse, patient abuse and exploitation.
- [3 Benefits of Creating a Trust When You Have Young Children](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/estate-planning-with-young-children-benefits/) - Discover how creating a trust can ensure financial security, avoid probate, and provide for special needs for families with young children.
- [What Happens to Your Right of Publicity When You Die? Estate Planning in Michigan in the Age of Deepfakes](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-happens-to-your-right-of-publicity-when-you-die-estate-planning-in-michigan-in-the-age-of-deepfakes/) - Explore the impact of AI on Estate Planning and Publicity. Discover how deepfake technology affects your legacy and rights.
- [Can I Just Handwrite My Will? What Michigan Law Says](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/can-i-just-handwrite-my-will-what-michigan-law-says/) - You’ve probably heard the story where someone writes their final wishes on a piece of paper or a napkin, signs it, and that’s their will. No lawyer, no notary, no fees, and no fuss. But can you do this in Michigan and expect it to hold up in court? The short answer is that sometimes
- [East Lansing Homeowners: Don’t Let This Deed Mistake Derail Your Estate Plan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/east-lansing-homeowners-dont-let-this-deed-mistake-derail-your-estate-plan/) - Planning your estate takes time and meticulous planning to ensure that your assets will be distributed to the proper intended beneficiaries. Drafting a will, establishing the family trust, and aligning asset ownership are all crucial steps in creating your estate plan. However, even the most meticulously prepared estate plan can be compromised by the small,
- [Top Five Common Estate Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/top-five-common-estate-planning-mistakes-and-how-to-avoid-them/) - Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are honored. Despite the best intentions, it’s easy to make missteps that can lead to confusion, delays, or even conflict down the road. Whether you’re creating your first estate plan or revisiting an existing
- [What is a Power of Attorney and Why Do You Need One?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-is-a-power-of-attorney-and-why-do-you-need-one/) - When planning for the future, many people focus on what happens after they pass away. Equally important is planning for what happens if you become unable to make decisions for yourself during your lifetime. That’s where a power of attorney (POA) comes in. A power of attorney is a legal document that allows someone else
- [Understanding the Basics of Estate Planning: Wills vs. Trusts](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/understanding-the-basics-of-estate-planning-wills-vs-trusts/) - Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your legacy, provide for your loved ones, and ensure your wishes are honored when you’re no longer here. Yet many people put it off, often because they don’t know where to begin. One of the first and most fundamental choices in
- [How to Choose the Right Executor for Your Will](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-to-choose-the-right-executor-for-your-will/) - Choosing the right executor for your will is one of the most important decisions you’ll make in your estate planning journey. This individual will be responsible for ensuring that your wishes are carried out, your debts are settled, and your assets are properly distributed. While it may sound straightforward, the role carries serious legal, financial,
- [The Role of a Trustee in Managing Your Trust](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/the-role-of-a-trustee-in-managing-your-trust/) - When you are creating a trust, you are doing more than just establishing a legal vehicle to hold and distribute your assets. You are also placing a great deal of responsibility in the hands of a trustee. Whether you are creating a revocable living trust as part of your estate plan or setting up an
- [How to Protect Your Children’s Inheritance](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-to-protect-your-childrens-inheritance/) - Ensuring your children receive what you worked hard for requires protecting their inheritance from taxes, lawsuits, mismanagement, and sometimes, even themselves. At its core, inheritance protection comes down to planning. Without a well-structured plan, state laws may dictate asset distribution, potentially leading to outcomes that don’t align with your wishes. This guide outlines key strategies
- [What Happens if You Die Without a Will in Michigan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-happens-if-you-die-without-a-will-in-michigan/) - Many people put off writing a will because they think they have time, or they assume their family will “just know” what to do. In Michigan, if you pass away without a valid will, the state decides how your assets are divided. That process is called intestate succession, and it often leads to results that
- [How Often Should You Update Your Estate Plan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-often-should-you-update-your-estate-plan/) - Creating an estate plan is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family, your assets, and your wishes. However, making it is only the beginning. Life changes, and so should your estate plan. It’s important to review and update regularly to ensure it still reflects your current goals, financial situation,
- [Understanding Advance Healthcare Directives](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/understanding-advance-healthcare-directives/) - When it comes to planning for the future, many people focus on wills, trusts, and financial matters. Something often overlooked, but just as important, is making medical wishes clear. In Michigan, advance healthcare directives allow individuals to plan ahead for their medical care if they ever become unable to speak for themselves. These documents are
- [Avoiding Probate: Why it Matters, How to Do It, and the Trade-Offs](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/avoiding-probate-why-it-matters-how-to-do-it-and-the-trade-offs/) - Probate is the legal process of distributing a deceased person’s assets under court supervision. While it’s designed to ensure everything is handled properly, it’s often time-consuming, expensive, and public. That’s why many individuals and families take proactive steps in order to avoid it altogether. Here is an outline of the key reasons for avoiding probate,
- [Probating Small Estates in Michigan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/probating-small-estates-in-michigan/) - When a loved one passes away, not every estate has to go through the full probate process. In Michigan, if the value of the estate is relatively low and certain conditions are met, you may be able to use a Small Estate Affidavit to transfer property without opening a probate case. This process is faster,
- [Step by Step Guide to Navigating Transfer of Vehicle Title in Michigan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/step-by-step-guide-to-navigating-transfer-of-vehicle-title-in-michigan/) - Losing a loved one is never easy, and dealing with legal and administrative tasks duringa time of grief can feel overwhelming. One of the common issues families face is how to transferownership of a vehicle that was titled in the deceased person’s name. Whether or not probate isrequired, Michigan law provides a process for transferring
- [Do Trusts Help with Succession Planning?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/do-trusts-help-with-succession-planning/) - A will might be enough planning for simple situations. However, most people’s lives aren’t so simple anymore. You may want to consider a trust if you have a large estate, a second marriage, heirs with problems, children with special needs or charitable goals. The recent article, “Do I Need a Trust?” from Ag Web explains
- [Protecting Inheritances in a Blended Family](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/protecting-inheritances-in-a-blended-family/) - Blended families have estate planning challenges differing from traditional families, explains a recent article from The Record Courier, “Estate Planning for Blended Families.” A blended family is one where one or both partners have children from a prior marriage. The details vary, but the concern is the same: the possibility for the children to be
- [Top 10 Estate Planning Myths](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/top-10-estate-planning-myths/) - Estate planning addresses many issues, from who inherits your property or handles your finances to who takes care of you if you’re incapacitated to who manages funds for a disabled child. Unfortunately, there are many myths around estate planning, as explained in the recent article “Debunking the Top 10 estate planning myths” from Insurance News
- [Coping With Terminal Illness: Getting Your Affairs in Order](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/coping-with-terminal-illness-getting-your-affairs-in-order/) - If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a terminal illness, there are many things to deal with. You’ll likely be in shock, processing emotions, and wondering what you need to do to get your affairs in order. This situation will be stressful, and you may not be thinking clearly. It might help
- [What are the Benefits of Creating a Life Estate?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-are-the-benefits-of-creating-a-life-estate/) - Quicken Loans’ recent article entitled “What Is A Life Estate And What Property Rights Does It Confer?” says by understanding the features of a life estate and creating one at the right time, you can enjoy several benefits, including the following: Property Avoids Probate. Property in a life estate doesn’t go through probate. Instead, it
- [Does Will Have an Expiration Date?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/does-will-have-an-expiration-date/) - Nj.com’s recent article entitled “Do I need to change my will if it’s about 10 years old?” explains that there’s no expiration date on a will. However, as your family and financial situations change, let alone as laws change, wills may need to be updated to reflect these changes and better reflect your intent. If
- [What’s the Best Way to Organize Your Estate Plan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/whats-the-best-way-to-organize-your-estate-plan/) - If you already have an estate plan, congratulations. However, do you remember where you put it? Does anyone but you know where it is? According to a recent article from The Press-Enterprise, “2023 check list: How to organize your estate plan,” most people take their estate plan and put the binder or file folder someplace
- [What Is a Beneficiary Defective Inheritor’s Trust?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-is-a-beneficiary-defective-inheritors-trust/) - The purpose of a Beneficiary Defective Inheritor’s Trust is to allow an individual with a federal estate tax problem to maintain control of the assets to the maximum extent allowed by law. The assets placed in a BDIT will not be included in the individuals tax estate when they pass away. This type of trust,
- [What’s a Bequest?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/whats-a-bequest/) - Yahoo’s recent article entitled “Bequests vs. Gifts: Which One Do I Need?” explains that a bequest is the personal property given to beneficiaries through the terms of a will when the original owner dies. A bequest can be cash, stocks, bonds, art, jewelry, or other personal items. However, it can’t be real estate: when
- [Who Gets Graceland after Lisa Marie Presley‘s  Death?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/who-gets-graceland-after-lisa-marie-presleys-death/) - The daughter of Elvis and Priscilla Presley, died on January 12 at 54 after suffering a cardiac arrest at her home in Calabasas, California. She will be buried near her late father and son (Ben Keogh) at Graceland, reports NME’s recent article entitled “Lisa Marie Presley’s children to inherit Graceland estate.” According to People, Lisa
- [When Is Life Insurance Taxable to Beneficiaries?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/when-is-life-insurance-taxable-to-beneficiaries/) - When people purchase life insurance policies, they designate a beneficiary who will benefit from the policy’s proceeds. When the life insurance policyholder dies, the policy’s beneficiary then receives a payout known as the death benefit. Yahoo Finance’s recent article entitled “Will My Beneficiaries Pay Taxes on Life Insurance?” says the big advantage of buying a
- [Why Everyone Needs an Estate Plan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/why-everyone-needs-an-estate-plan/) - Estate planning means making plans to manage and distribute assets and caring for loved ones in the event of a person’s death or incapacity. It also involves the creation of legally binding documents to outline a person’s wishes for health care and financial matters. Estate planning ensures your wishes are carried out and is also
- [Should You Take Social Security Benefits at Age 62?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/should-you-take-social-security-benefits-at-age-62/) - Social Security beneficiaries are now receiving an 8.7% boost to benefits, the largest Cost of Living Adjustment, or COLA, in forty years. However, this doesn’t mean everyone eligible for Social Security benefits should jump on the bandwagon, says a recent article, “Approaching age 62? What you need to know about Social Security’s 87% cost-of-living adjustment
- [Can I Benefit Sleep by Changing Eating Habits?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/can-i-benefit-sleep-by-changing-eating-habits/) - It might surprise you to know that all adults over 18 need seven hours or more of solid sleep per night, including those over age 65. While poor sleep quality isn’t directly life-threatening, it can impair the immune system of older adults and lead to increased illness, anxiety and depression, reports a recent article from
- [Some Dementia Warning Signs May Appear Years in Advance](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/some-dementia-warning-signs-may-appear-years-in-advance/) - Seeing these dementia signs early enough might offer the possibility of treating underlying factors at a time when it can make a big difference to your long-term health, says Money Talks News’ recent article entitled “3 Dementia Warning Signs That May Appear Years in Advance.” In a summary of the research findings, the study’s first
- [What Is Needed in Estate Plan Besides a Will?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-is-needed-in-estate-plan-besides-a-will/) - Having a will is especially important if you have young children, says FedWeek’s recent article entitled “Estate Planning Doesn’t Stop with Making a Will.” In your will, you can nominate guardians, who would raise your children in the event neither you nor your spouse is able to do so. When designating a guardian, try to
- [Can I Protect My Family after Death?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/can-i-protect-my-family-after-death/) - Estate planning involves a close look at personal and financial goals while you are living and after you have died, as explained in a recent article titled “Professional Advice: Secure your future with estate planning” from Northwest Indiana Business Magazine. Having a comprehensive estate plan ensures that your wishes will be carried out and loved
- [These Celebrities Didn’t have Wills…But You Should](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/these-celebrities-didnt-have-willsbut-you-should/) - Rapper Coolio died at age 59 after being found unresponsive on the floor at a friend’s house. His real name was Artis Leon Ivey Jr., and his former manager, Jared Posey, recently filed a probate case to appraise the value of his estate, according to a recent article “What Coolio, Prince and Picasso didn’t have
- [What was So Unusual About Michigan Mayor’s Will?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-was-so-unusual-about-michigan-mayors-will/) - Michigander Wellington R. Burt is now best known for a codicil in this will that likely had no precedent back in 1919 when he died. The term mandated that his estate not be dispersed until 21 years after the last grandchild born in his lifetime died. Newsbreak’s recent article, entitled “Former Saginaw mayor's unusual will
- [Who Were the 119 Heirs to a Chicago Man’s $11 Million Estate?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/who-were-the-119-heirs-to-a-chicago-mans-11-million-estate/) - A Chicago man’s $11 million estate is being divided between 119 relatives after a company unraveled his accounts and family tree. Block Club Chicago’s recent article entitled “A Chicago Man Quietly Left Behind $11 Million — The Largest Unclaimed Estate In American History” reports that Joseph Stancak lived a quiet life in Gage Park, Illinois,
- [Beneficiary Mistakes to Avoid](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/beneficiary-mistakes-to-avoid/) - Planning for one’s eventual death can be a somber task. However, consider what would occur if you failed to plan: loved ones trying to figure out your intentions, a long and expensive legal battle with unintended heirs and instead of grieving your loss, wondering why you didn’t take care of business while you were living.
- [How Does a Trust Work?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-does-a-trust-work/) - You’ve worked hard to accumulate financial assets. You’ll need them to support your retirement. However, what if you also want to pass them on to loved ones? Trusts are used to pass assets to the next generation and have many benefits, says a recent article titled “Passing assets through a trust—What to know” from the
- [High Interest Rates Have an Impact on Estate Planning](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/high-interest-rates-have-an-impact-on-estate-planning/) - The Section 7520 rate has been low for the past 15 years and presented many opportunities for good planning. What happens when inflation has returned and rates are moving up, asks a recent article titled “Estate Planning Techniques in a High—Interest—Rate Environment” from Bloomberg Tax. The Section 7520 rate is the interest rate for a
- [When Is a Family Limited Partnership Needed?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/when-is-a-family-limited-partnership-needed/) - Being able to transfer wealth from one generation to the next is a good thing, especially now, when a big change is coming to the federal estate tax exemption amount, says a recent article titled “The Pros and Cons of Family Limited Partnerships” from The Wall Street Journal. In 2022, estates valued at up to
- [What Is a ‘Residuary’ Estate?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-is-a-residuary-estate/) - This is also known as estate residue or residual estate. It simply means the assets left over after a will has been read, assets have been distributed to heirs and any final expenses have been paid. An estate planning attorney can help avoid leaving residual assets behind, with a comprehensive estate plan, reports a recent
- [Candidate Is in Hot Water with Singer Tom Petty’s Estate](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/candidate-is-in-hot-water-with-singer-tom-pettys-estate/) - Politicians or anyone else can't simply use a copyrighted piece of music in an ad or at a large-scale public gathering without paying the composer for the rights or at the very least asking their permission, explains MSN’s recent article entitled “Tom Petty's Estate Won't Back Down From Going After People Who Use His Music.”
- [Anne Heche’s Estate Facing Another Problem](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/anne-heches-estate-facing-another-problem/) - Actress Anne Heche was transported to the hospital after her car crashed into the home of Lynne Mishele on August 5. She died a week later at the age of 53. Her manner of death was listed as an accident in a report released by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner. Fox 10 Phoenix’s recent
- [Do I Need a Trust, or a Last Will and Testament?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/do-i-need-a-trust-or-a-last-will-and-testament/) - Whether to have a will or a trust or both is often discussed when embarking on the estate planning process. Arriving at the answer, as discussed in a recent article, “Personal needs, preferences drive estate planning,” from The News-Enterprise, requires a closer look at each individual’s situation. The last will and testament doesn’t take effect
- [What Documents are Needed in an Emergency?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-documents-are-needed-in-an-emergency/) - Most people don’t have any idea where to start when it comes to their emergency documents. This often keeps them from going anywhere near their estate planning. This is a big mistake, says a recent article, “3 tasks your family needs to complete to ease any anxiety over unexpected emergencies,” from MarketWatch. Estate planning is
- [Should You Agree to Being a Guardian?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/should-you-agree-to-being-a-guardian/) - Yes, it is an honor to be asked to be the guardian of someone’s children. However, you’ll want to understand the full responsibilities involved before agreeing to this life-changing role. A recent article from Kiplinger, “3 Key Things to Consider Before Agreeing to Be A Guardian in a Trust,” explains. For parents, this is one
- [Should I Need a Trust in My Estate Plan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/should-i-need-a-trust-in-my-estate-plan/) - Fed Week’s recent article entitled “Considerations for Including a Trust in Your Estate Plan” describes what a trust can offer. This includes the following: Protection against possible incompetency. To protect yourself, you can create a trust and move your assets into it. You can be the trustee, so you’ll control the assets and enjoy the
- [Planning for Crypto and NFT Assets in Estate Plan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/planning-for-crypto-and-nft-assets-in-estate-plan/) - People generally don’t like to deal with their own mortality. However, assets need the protection of an estate plan. If they are digital assets, planning is even more important. According to a recent article from nft.now titled “What Happens to Your Crypto and NFTs When You Die?”, Bitcoin’s total circulation is unlikely to reach its
- [Can You Prevent Family Fights over Inheritance?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/can-you-prevent-family-fights-over-inheritance/) - Inheritance battles can create new conflicts, inflame long-standing resentments and squander assets intended to make heir’s lives better. What can families do to prevent estate battles when a loved one’s intentions aren’t accepted is the question asked by the recent article, “Warning Signs Of Estate Disputes—And Ways to Avoid Them,” from mondaq.com. Here are the
- [Can I Protect My Elderly Parents?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/can-i-protect-my-elderly-parents/) - Estate planning requires the ability to be realistic about current health and assets, while considering the inevitable changes to come. For adults with aging parents, having a well-thought out estate plan, regardless of the size of the estate, becomes more urgent as the time to use the documents draws closer. A recent article, “Accessing needs
- [Top Five Estate Planning Mistakes](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/top-five-estate-planning-mistakes/) - Everyone should have an estate plan, whether it’s a simple will or a detailed and complex one with trusts and strategies for multiple generations. The more care and thought put into the plan, says a recent article, “5 Common Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid” from Kiplinger, the better the outcome. There are some common mistakes
- [How Many Americans Suffer from Dementia?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-many-americans-suffer-from-dementia/) - In a nationally representative cross-sectional study of about 3,500 older adults, 10% (95% CI 9-11) were classified as having dementia and 22% (95% CI 20-24) as having mild cognitive impairment, according to Jennifer Manly, PhD, of Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York City, and colleagues. MedPage Today’s recent article entitled “Dementia Strikes One
- [Why Is Power of Attorney So Important for Estate Planning?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/why-is-power-of-attorney-so-important-for-estate-planning/) - One of the most overlooked and important documents in estate planning is the Power of Attorney. A recent article from Farm Progress, “Often overlooked estate planning issues: Powers of attorney,” explains how this document works and why it’s so important. Most people will become incapacitated at some point in our lives, especially as we age.
- [Is Spouse Automatically Your Beneficiary?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/is-spouse-automatically-your-beneficiary/) - People make a grave error when they don’t have a will because they think their surviving spouse will automatically inherit all of their worldly goods. The laws of intestacy work differently, as explained in a recent article “Estate Planning: The spouse doesn’t always get everything” from nwi.com. The surviving spouse rarely receives everything under the
- [What to Do When Your Spouse Dies](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-to-do-when-your-spouse-dies/) - Kiplinger’s recent article entitled “A Checklist for What to Do (and NOT Do) After Someone Dies” provides some worthwhile information to help you if you are faced with a death in the family and must organize the next steps. Contact the funeral home. You need to make arrangements and ask them for 10 additional copies
- [Major Blunders in Estate Planning](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/major-blunders-in-estate-planning/) - Kiplinger’s recent article entitled “5 Common Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid” warns that if you overlook an important step or make a misstep in your estate planning, everything could be undone. You could instead burden your family with a challenging and headache-inducing estate. There are many ways to get things wrong. Let’s look at a
- [The Benefits of a Good Estate Plan](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/the-benefits-of-a-good-estate-plan/) - If you don’t have a comprehensive estate plan, state law will control. That’s unlikely to coincide with what you would choose to do. MSN’s recent article entitled “What is estate planning?” discusses the benefits of estate planning. Minimizes taxes. Clever structuring of flexible retirement accounts, such as a Roth IRA, can help funnel more tax-free
- [What Happens When Inheritances are Unequal?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-happens-when-inheritances-are-unequal/) - In this case, one brother left New York and had nothing to do with his brother for the rest of their lives. Uneven inheritances almost always lead to poor feelings between siblings, says a recent article “Where There’s a Will, There Can Be a War” from Next Avenue. Wills have a way of frustrating a
- [Estate Planning for Different Ages and Stages of Life](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/estate-planning-for-different-ages-and-stages-of-life/) - Estate planning is a critical means of protecting your financial legacy, providing for loved ones, reducing taxes and preventing unnecessary expenses, says a recent article from The Seattle Times, “Estate planning needs vary at every stage of your life.” The reasons for an estate plan change depending on your stage of life. However, no matter
- [What Estate Planning Can a Nursing Home Resident Do?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-estate-planning-can-a-nursing-home-resident-do/) - It can be difficult trying to understand the estate settlement process. It’s a system so arcane and frustrating that it can take months to complete. Family members must deal with probate, taxes, assets and debts — all while navigating their grief. McKnight’s Senior Living’s recent article entitled “5 estate-planning steps your residents should know” says
- [Can an Elder Law Attorney Help Me with Medicaid?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/can-an-elder-law-attorney-help-me-with-medicaid/) - Ensuring that the elderly have their rights respected is extremely important. That is where an elder law Medicaid attorney can play a major role. MarketWatch’s recent article entitled, “What does an elder law Medicaid attorney do?” explains that an elder law attorney specializes in the needs of older adults, which can be different when compared
- [Why Don’t Most American have an Estate Plan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/why-dont-most-american-have-an-estate-plan/) - Just one of every three Americans has an estate plan in place, mostly because they don’t believe they have the assets to merit it. Investment News’ recent article entitled “Procrastinating Americans putting off estate plans, says D.A. Davidson survey” says 34% of adults in the U.S. have an estate plan, according to a survey released
- [Should I List Beneficiaries on my Life Insurance?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/should-i-list-beneficiaries-on-my-life-insurance/) - What are the primary benefits of having a life insurance policy? In exchange for a monthly or annual payment to a life insurance provider, your beneficiaries get a pre-determined sum of money after you die. CBS News’ recent article entitled “Choosing life insurance beneficiaries? Make these 3 smart moves says it's important to have the
- [Estate Planning for Changing Economic Times](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/estate-planning-for-changing-economic-times/) - Estate plans created during a historically low interest rate environment may need to be re-examined and new techniques considered, according to a recent article titled “Estate Planning For A New Day” from Financial Advisor. Inflation changes the future value of assets and the value of real estate and taxes due on distributions. For an estate
- [How Do I Ask My Parents About Their Estate Plan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-do-i-ask-my-parents-about-their-estate-plan/) - Next Avenue’s recent article entitled “Mom, Do You Have a Will?” says that many older adults and their children don't want to talk about death. Of course, you could simply ask your parents about their wishes. How do you make sure the transition after they have died is uncomplicated? If you die with very few
- [What Happens when You Inherit a Retirement Account?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-happens-when-you-inherit-a-retirement-account/) - The SECURE Act of 2019 reset the game for IRAs and other tax deferred retirement accounts, says a recent article from Financial Advisor titled “IRAs, Taxes and Inheritance: Planning Becomes a Family Affair.” Prior to SECURE, investors paid ordinary income tax rates on withdrawals, whether they were voluntary or Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from these
- [How Does an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust Work?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-does-an-irrevocable-life-insurance-trust-work/) - Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs) are a common planning tool. However, buying the policy at the wrong time, leaving out Crummey withdrawal rights and ignoring administrative costs are commonly made mistakes. Being aware of these snares is important to make the ILIT effective, says a recent article titled “Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts in Estate Planning:
- [Top 10 Success Tips for Estate Planning](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/top-10-success-tips-for-estate-planning/) - Unless you’ve done the planning, assets may not be distributed according to your wishes and loved ones may not be taken care of after your death. These are just two reasons to make sure you have an estate plan, according to the recent article titled “Estate Planning 101: 10 Tips for Success” from the Maryland
- [Estate Planning Considerations for Minor Children](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/estate-planning-considerations-for-minor-children/) - Creating an estate plan with minor children in mind has a host of variables quite different than one where all heirs are adults. If the intention is for the minor children to be beneficiaries, or if there is a remote chance a minor child might become an unintended beneficiary, different provisions will be needed. A
- [How Can an Elder Law Attorney Help Me?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-can-an-elder-law-attorney-help-me/) - Seasons’ recent article entitled “Finding an elder care lawyer” discusses ways in which an experienced elder law attorney can help you. Social Security. Did you know that you’re statistically more likely to achieve a positive outcome when you get help from a lawyer when approaching the Social Security Administration? Elder attorneys know the steps they
- [What Did George Harrison Leave to His Sister in His Estate Plan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-did-george-harrison-leave-to-his-sister-in-his-estate-plan/) - Ex-Beatle George Harrison promised to take care of his sister, Louise, for the rest of her life. She thinks he’d be horrified to know that she no longer gets a pension. Even so, she says she’s not upset about it. She did share the one regret she had, though. MSN’s recent article entitled “George Harrison’s
- [Is Your Business Included in Estate Plan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/is-your-business-included-in-estate-plan/) - Forbes’ recent article entitled “The Importance of Estate Planning When Building Your Business” says that every business that’s expected to survive must have a clear answer to this question. The plan needs to be shared with the current owners and management as well as the future owners. The common things business owners use to put
- [How Does Probate Court Work?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-does-probate-court-work/) - Probate court is where wills are examined to be sure they have been prepared according to the laws of the state and according to the wishes of the person who has died. It is also the jurisdiction where the executor is approved, their activities are approved and all debts are paid and assets are distributed
- [What Is the Purpose of a Guardian?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-is-the-purpose-of-a-guardian/) - The most frequently asked questions about guardianship concern when it’s needed, how the process works and is there a way to avoid it. The idea of guardianship may feel troubling if you’ve never known anyone who needed a guardian, says a recent article “Guardian process can be lengthy, difficult” from The News-Enterprise. Simply put, guardianship
- [Was the Late Comedian Louie Anderson a Victim of Elder Abuse?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/was-the-late-comedian-louie-anderson-a-victim-of-elder-abuse/) - Comedian Louie Anderson, who died in January this year aged 68, suffered at the hands of people close to him, according to a petition filed by his sister Lisa Anderson, who has submitted a motion seeking to keep them from getting their hands on assets from his estate. MSN’s recent article entitled “Louie Anderson was
- [Who Pays the Bills when Medicare Runs Out?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/who-pays-the-bills-when-medicare-runs-out/) - Many families will face the reality that at some point an aging family member must go to a nursing home, also called “rehab”. They provide things assisted living homes aren’t licensed to give, such as skilled care. For instance, an aging parent has surgery and needs therapy during the recovery period. They’re sent from the
- [What are the Biggest Social Security Myths?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-are-the-biggest-social-security-myths/) - Millions of Americans count on Social Security to help them financially during retirement. However, it’s easy to expect too much out of Social Security, as a recent survey from Allianz Life Insurance Co. of North America discovered. In the survey, 1,000 adults ages 25 and older were asked to talk about their Social Security strategy.
- [What Factors Impact Social Security Check?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-factors-impact-social-security-check/) - The amount of your Social Security retirement check and how much can you keep are the subjects of Money Talks News’ recent article entitled “9 Factors That Impact the Size of Your Social Security Check.” It examines the deciding factors behind the size of your check and how much goes into your pocket. Your work
- [No Inheritance Tax for King Charles III](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/no-inheritance-tax-for-king-charles-iii/) - British citizens must pay a standard 40% on any part of an estate valued at more than about £325,000 pounds—about $374,000, says the article “No, King Charles III won’t pay any inheritance tax on his massive gain” from National Public Radio. There are exceptions, such as money left to a charity of a spouse. An
- [What Should I Know About Long-Term Care?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-should-i-know-about-long-term-care/) - Long-term care insurance is a specialty type of insurance that helps pay for costs that are typically connected with long-term care. This can include items such as care given in a hospital, nursing home services, medical services provided in your home and treatment for dementia. WGN’s recent article entitled “10 Crucial Things to Know about
- [Who Inherits Queen Elizabeth II’s Fortune?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/who-inherits-queen-elizabeth-iis-fortune/) - Queen Elizabeth II, the United Kingdom's longest-serving monarch, aged 96, after reigning for 70 years. She died on September 8 at her estate at Balmoral, Scotland. The late Queen Elizabeth II had a fortune worth roughly $500M over 70 years on the throne. This fortune includes assets, property, art, and jewelry. MSN’s recent article entitled
- [Why are Trusts a Good Idea?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/why-are-trusts-a-good-idea/) - Estate planning attorneys know trusts are the Swiss Army knife of estate planning. Whatever the challenge is to be overcome, there is a trust to solve the problem. This includes everything from protecting assets from creditors to ensuring the right people inherit assets. There’s no hype about trusts, despite the title of this article, “Trusts—What
- [Problems Created When No Will Is Available](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/problems-created-when-no-will-is-available/) - Ask any estate planning attorney how much material they have for a book, or a movie based on the drama they see from family squabbles when someone dies without a will. There’s plenty—but a legal requirement of confidentiality and professionalism keeps those stories from circulating as widely as they might. This may be why more
- [How Not to Build a Family Football Dynasty](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/how-not-to-build-a-family-football-dynasty/) - Pat Bowlen did everything right when planning for his NFL team to be transferred to new owners. He created a succession plan and filed it with the NFL, as required by the organization’s bylaws. He notified heirs of developments as they occurred. Despite this, for years before and after Bowlen died in 2019, the battle
- [Can Dementia Risk Increase by Behavior in Social Settings?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/can-dementia-risk-increase-by-behavior-in-social-settings/) - No matter if you like to be in the spotlight or have one-on-one conversations, meeting friends is a great way to stay connected. However, you may be doing something in these situations—intentionally or not—that could be hurting your brain. Yahoo Life’s recent article entitled “If You Do This in Social Situations, Your Dementia Risk Soars”
- [Why Do I Need an Estate Plan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/why-do-i-need-an-estate-plan/) - Yahoo News’ recent article entitled “Don't fail to be ready for the day you're dead” says that you need four key legal documents to take care of those who care for you. An experienced estate planning attorney will make sure it's all done correctly. A will. This is the most obvious document folks think of
- [Can You Gift Money on Your Deathbed?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/can-you-gift-money-on-your-deathbed/) - A new case out of Tax Court centers on the question of when a “deathbed gift” is considered acceptable for estate and gift tax purposes. The powerful tax law provisions used to help many taxpayers avoid federal estate tax, or reduce it to a manageable size, makes this an important decision, especially as we draw
- [Did Actress Anne Heche have a Will?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/did-actress-anne-heche-have-a-will/) - Homer Laffoon, actress Anne Heche’s 20-year-old son, is asking that he be awarded control of his mother’s assets. His mother died last month after a car crash at age 53 and did not have a will, according to a copy of the petition obtained by CNN. "Filed concurrently with this petition is a Petition for
- [Another Reason Why You Need an Estate Planning Attorney](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/another-reason-why-you-need-an-estate-planning-attorney-2/) - The saying ‘you don’t know what you don’t know’ is most apt in estate planning. A well-meaning person may create a will with the goal of leaving property to grandchildren, only for the children or their parents to learn after the grandparent’s passing the law does not permit property to be transferred. A recent article
- [The Most Important Part of Estate Plan Is Planning for Living](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/the-most-important-part-of-estate-plan-is-planning-for-living/) - Most people think of estate planning as planning for death. However, a well-titled article “Planning for death probably isn’t the most important part of your estate plan” from Coeur d’Alene/Post Falls Press presents another reason for estate planning in clear terms. Estate planning is planning for the unexpected eventualities of life. Estate planning documents address
- [What You Need to Do After a Spouse Dies](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-you-need-to-do-after-a-spouse-dies/) - To prepare for this sad eventuality, it’s best to start with a checklist of important financial information, according to a recent article titled “Are you prepared if your spouse should unexpectedly pass away?” from New Haven Register. Do you and your spouse have wills and are they up to date? Not having a will can
- [Why Does Everyone Need an Estate Plan?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/why-does-everyone-need-an-estate-plan/) - Twenty and thirty-year olds are busy building their lives, starting or growing careers, exploring personal goals, repaying student loans and maybe starting a family. They’re young and healthy and think nothing can happen to them—but that’s not true. A recent article from Kiplinger titled “You’re Not Too Young for an Estate Plan: 7 Essentials for
- [What Does Balance Say about Health?](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/what-does-balance-say-about-health/) - Balance training is an important skill, one that’s often neglected and can lead to more serious injuries than most people know. It impacts longevity and quality of life, starting around age 40 and becoming more important as people age, according to a recent article from The New York Times, which asks “Can You Pass the
- [Planning for Long Term Care Is Important](https://yourestateplanninglawyer.com/planning-for-long-term-care-is-important/) - Elder law attorneys have far too many stories of people who fail to plan, plan incorrectly or incompletely, or plan to fail by doing nothing at all, as described in the article “Elder Care: People in a pickle” from The Sentinel. Here’s a sad story. A woman calls the elder law office because her husband

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