Planning for, or dealing with, an incapacitation can be one of the most difficult aspects of estate planning. Your loved ones mean everything to you and you want to ensure they’re cared for properly. If you’re new to this area of California law, you’re probably...
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California Estate Planning Blog
What are some needed items for incapacity plans?
The term, “incapacity plan,” refers to that part of your estate plan that activates when (if) you become incapacitated but are still alive. It can be extremely important. About two-thirds of us still do not even have a will, at least according to Caring.com. However,...
How long must a conservator serve in the role?
When Californians think about estate planning, it is natural to focus on wills, trusts and other basic aspects of preparing for the future. Incapacity planning is not something people want to consider, but when loved ones are getting older and experiencing declining...
Do I need to update my estate plan after having kids?
Congratulations! Having a child is a life-affirming and life-changing event, and you are going to be a great parent. Breathe, and take it one day at a time. But, do not forget that you need to update your San Jose, California, estate plan as soon as possible. Changing...
When do I need to update my estate plan?
There are several key moments in your life when you should consider updating your estate plan in addition to regular and routine reviews. It is beneficial for estate planners to know when those times are and when they should consider taking a second or third look at...
Selling a home as a successor trustee
A successor trustee in California has many responsibilities. A successor trustee is someone who steps into the role of the grantor, who is the person who established a trust after that person passes away. One of the biggest actions you may need to take as a successor...
What do trustees need to do to administer the trust?
Having a trust can provide some advantages over a will. Trusts can alleviate some of the tax burdens that fall on larger estates. One of the main reasons and advantages of having a trust is that the property can be passed on without having to go through probate. While...
Is there any way my estate can avoid the probate process?
You may find the concept of probate to be confusing. You may even ask, “You mean my property does not just go straight to my heirs, as my will instructs?” Unfortunately, probate involves a lot more than simply distributing assets to heirs. Creditors and taxes need to...
Have you saved enough for retirement?
With record numbers of baby boomers retiring every year, there is a lot of angst over how people are doing it, whether they’ve saved enough, or if they are picking the wrong time to retire. According to a 2019 survey, more than half of respondents cited a fear of...
What are the pros and cons of a California 529?
As parents get ready to send their children off to college, they are usually at the apex of careful financial planning that began in the nursery. While there are many ways to save for college, whether through a trust, IRA, or other investment tool, many people in...