With our longer lifespans, about half of us find ourselves in second marriages. Even those of us who do not marry again may have property we acquired before marriage or gifts or inheritances we received. In making an estate plan it is important to clarify what is community property and what is separate property. It is often not what we assume. How do you make Texas community property and separate property work for you?
When you are gone, what will your family need? What will they need in those first days and weeks, those first months, while they struggle to accept the fact that you are not there to guide them? Use these tips to plan ahead.
Many of us want to leave something to charity. Some of us are in a position to give a good deal. What if you could give in a way which benefitted the charity and left you with more than if you had held onto it? Under the right circumstances, a charitable remainder trust can do just that.
Whether we should or not, most of us name one agent, not co-agents, and name someone close to us, someone to whom we have given gifts in the past and someone to whom we may want to give gifts to in the future.
Our agent has a duty to put our interests first and to act in good faith with durable powers of attorney and gifts. How can this be done if the agent is, in essence, giving something to himself?
Many estate planning attorneys focus on writing wills and testamentary trusts, documents which divide up your “stuff” when you are gone. But, what about when you’re still alive? Who will help protect you, keep you in charge and help you get what you want? An elder law attorney can help. Learn more here.
Do you shop or pay bills, bank or invest online? Do you use Facebook or Google dox, share photos on Shutterfly or Pinterest, use email, have frequent flyer miles, keep pictures or records on your computer? Old or forgotten online accounts can become zombie accounts. How do you protect your online accounts?
Take care of yourselves in sickness and in health. Secure your well-being and that of those you love. Download this FREE eBook now.
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