1. If I make a will, do I have to register it with a will registry? If you choose to write a last will and testament, you have no obligation to file that document with a will registry. Though there are some states which have will registries, or allow you to file information where your will can be found, that type of registration is never required. All you have to do to make a will is ensure that it complies with state requirements, and filing your will with state will registry is not one of … [Read more...] about What You Need to Know About Will Registries – FAQ
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3 Estate Planning Issues You Need to Think About if You Have Stepchildren
Anyone living in a blended family situation faces several estate planning concerns that non-blended family households do not share. Whether you have recently entered into a new marriage or have been living as a blended family for some time, there are several issues you will need to think about when making your estate plan. Here is a brief list. Issue 1: Inheritances Many parents of stepchildren want to leave those stepchildren some form of inheritance upon their death. However, your … [Read more...] about 3 Estate Planning Issues You Need to Think About if You Have Stepchildren
The Reading of Your Will, and Why it Never Happens
Estate planning attorneys are commonly asked about a number of legal issues that have little or no basis in reality. One of the more popular misconceptions is the idea that after you die your family and friends will have to gather in a room and listen to your lawyer read the terms of your will. Though this misperception is often reinforced by movies or television, it is almost entirely a fictional device and is not required in any state. The “reading of the will” idea probably originated from … [Read more...] about The Reading of Your Will, and Why it Never Happens
Probate and Jointly Owned Property – 3 Questions
Question 1: What is jointly owned property and why does it matter when it comes to probate? When you die, much of your property will have to go through the probate process before someone else can legally own it. However, if you are a joint owner in property, such as owning a house as joint owner with your spouse, that property usually doesn't have to go through probate. When a co-owner of jointly owned property dies, the remaining owner still retains ownership rights. Question 2: Are there … [Read more...] about Probate and Jointly Owned Property – 3 Questions
The Best Retirement Choice May Be Not to Retire
You Keep Yourself Happy Work can be fulfilling. The chance to work with other people, help solve problems, build something, contribute to a goal, and organize other people, all offer a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Even when work is a chore, it's also a way to feel like you've accomplished something and that you're needed. Also, if you stop working and suddenly find yourself out of sorts, you'll probably make life a lot less happy for your family and loved ones. You Keep Yourself … [Read more...] about The Best Retirement Choice May Be Not to Retire
