Most people understand that having some sort of an estate plan is a good thing. However, many of us don’t take the steps to have an estate plan prepared because we don’t understand the nuances between wills and trusts – and dying without either. Here’s what will generally happen if you die, intestate (without a will or trust), with a …
Wills vs. Trusts: A Quick & Simple Reference Guide
Confused about the differences between wills and trusts? If so, you’re not alone. While it’s always wise to contact experts like us, it’s also important to understand the basics. Here’s a quick and simple reference guide: What Revocable Living Trusts Can Do – That Wills Can’t Avoid a conservatorship and guardianship. A revocable living trust allows you to authorize your …
Do I Need a Will or Trust?
Yes! Everyone needs a will, trust, or both to ensure your legacy is passed on in the way you intend, to provide for children, spouse, and family members, and in the case of trusts, to avoid probate. Wills and trusts are not just for the wealthy: A well-drafted plan ensures that what you do have is not wasted in probate …
Do you really need a will?
Most Americans do not have a simple will as part of their estate plan. You might believe that a will is only for the rich and famous, and not the average person who has a far smaller net worth. On the other hand, you may think that a will is entirely unnecessary since you have a trust, jointly owned property, …
Do you really need a will?
You May Not Think You Need a Will, But You Really Do. Most Americans do not have a simple will as part of their estate plan. You might believe that a will is only for the rich and famous, and not the average person who has a far smaller net worth. On the other hand, you may think that a …
What to Do When Your Doctor Says to “Get Your Affairs in Order”
Five words no one ever wants to hear from their doctor: “Get your affairs in order.” Unfortunately, 58 percent of Americans do not have a will or trust, and it often requires a chronic disease or terminal illness diagnosis, or other life-changing event to prompt the estate planning process. Talk to your attorney about completing the documents below and follow …
Wills, Trusts & Dying Intestate: How They Differ
Most people understand that having some sort of an estate plan is a good thing. However, many of us do not take the first steps to get that estate plan in place because we do not understand the nuances between a will and trust – and dying without either. Here is what will generally happen if you die, intestate (without …
Wills vs. Trusts: A Quick & Simple Reference Guide
Confused about the differences between a will and a trust? If so, you are not alone. While it is always wise to contact experts like us, it is also important to understand the basics. Here is a quick and simple reference guide: What a Revocable Living Trust Can Do – That a Will Cannot Avoid conservatorship and guardianship. A revocable …
Why You Should Consult a Champaign Estate Planning Attorney to Protect Your Family
The process of protecting your family and setting up your estate in the event of your death can be a daunting and expensive process. It can involve some very deep thinking about painful issues. Nonetheless, it is an important process – one that every family should engage in. First, it is important to understand why estate planning is so important. …
Wills, Trusts & Dying Intestate: How They Differ
Most people understand that having some sort of an estate plan is a good thing. However, many of us do not take the first steps to get that estate plan in place because we do not understand the nuances between a will and trust – and dying without either. Here is what will generally happen if you die, intestate (without …
A Champaign Estate Planning Attorney Explains How to Plan for the Future
If you live in or near Champaign, Illinois, and are looking to plan an estate and ensure the financial future of your family, you’re in luck. Estate planning isn’t tremendously difficult, but it does require some time to gather the appropriate materials and make plans with your family. At the end of the day, you’ll want to call an experienced …