Writing your estate plan is just the first step of many when it comes to managing matters of the estate. While this first step often serves as the most crucial due to it forming the basis of all following steps, it is certainly not the last or the only one. Updating...
Wills
How to handle children in your estate plan?
When writing your estate plan, your children need to be at the forefront of your mind. According to Fidelity, when drafting an estate plan, you need to think about their guardianship and how you want to distribute your assets. Using trusts or your retirement plan can...
What are the types of trusts?
A trust is a vehicle through which you can leave assets after your death to specific heirs in specific ways. This type of arrangement gives you a lot of control over the handling of your assets. NerdWallet explains there are a few different types of trusts. However,...
What is a living will?
You probably already know that estate plans protect your family and assets after you are gone. However, they can also benefit you while you are alive and in need of medical care for a terminal condition or serious injury. According to the Mayo Clinic, a living will...
When does an estate go through probate in New York?
Probate occurs when a person dies and the court supervises the administration of his or her estate. Not every New York estate must undergo probate. Many individuals use estate planning strategies to avoid court-ordered estate administration and save money and time for...
Can I put conditions in my will?
It is a very wise move to plan for what your heirs will receive when you pass away. While drafting a will, you may realize that you would like to leave certain assets untouched until someone reaches a certain age, for example, or finishes schooling. It is acceptable...
Can I appoint a guardian for my minor child in my will?
A Last Will and Testament can be a powerful estate planning tool in New York. Your will can dictate what happens to your property after you pass and can leave your last wishes to your family. Your will can also appoint a guardian for your child or children if they are...
Do you have legal grounds to contest a will?
New York residents like you may feel overwhelmed when dealing with estate litigation for the first time. This is particularly true of wills, which often have complex laws even in the best of scenarios. And in the worst of scenarios? You may find yourself facing the...
5 estate planning myths
Proper estate planning allows you to make personalized, informed decisions about your finances, health and other goals. You can look after yourself and your family, all while meeting your financial goals. You can avoid mistakes and instead make informed decisions...
When should I update my will?
The last will and testament is an essential aspect of most estate plans. Creating a decisive, legally binding document ensures your last wishes are honored and your family receives a share of your state. While will creation is crucial, keeping the document updated is...