A power of attorney authorizes someone else to make decisions on your behalf. For instance, you could use a financial power of attorney to allow someone to pay your taxes or access your bank account. You might use a medical power of attorney to give your agent the...
Estate Planning
When and why might your estate plan need a review and update?
Regularly updating your estate plan can ensure it reflects your current wishes and circumstances. Several life events and changes can necessitate an update to your estate plan. Here is a brief guide to help you determine when and why you should revisit your estate...
Charitable trusts: An option to consider for an estate plan
Setting up an estate plan isn’t always an easy undertaking, but it’s one that’s very important for all adults. You have to consider several points and options as you’re setting up the plan. One of consideration that should be made is whether charitable giving will be...
Can I exclude my child from my will?
Not everyone wants to leave their children something when they die. In Texas, you are under no obligation to leave your kids a dime, unless they are still minors when you die, in which case they have a right to some of your estate. So, assuming your kids have already...
What do you need for your estate plan? 4 places to start
An estate plan can help ensure your last wishes are met after you pass away. The majority of your estate plan will be about instructing how your assets should be handled. However, there are a few more things you can do with an estate plan. If you are just starting on...
Considerations when putting a business succession plan in place
If you own your own business, a succession plan needs to be part of your estate planning. Unlike most elements of an estate plan, however, a succession plan may be implemented long before you pass away. You will likely either want or need to retire one day, so it’s...
Why you should consider digital estate planning
The estate planning process is an integral part of ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you pass away. However, in today's digital age, one crucial aspect that is often overlooked is planning for your digital assets. While it may seem...
Why get your first estate plan made now?
There will always be an excuse not to sit down and make your first estate plan. Many people keep on putting it off for years. A 2024 survey by Caring.com found that only 32% of American adults have made theirs. While you hopefully will not need to call on your estate...
How do you revise your estate plan after divorce?
Divorce can be a tumultuous undertaking. From untangling emotions and assets to working out a parenting plan and discussing alimony and child support, divorce comes with a list of things to do. While navigating the complexities of divorce, however, it is important...
How to bring up estate planning with your parents
If you don’t think your parents have an estate plan, you may be concerned about what the future holds. Perhaps you’re worried about disputes that you and your siblings could get into if you don’t have a plan to tell you how to distribute assets. Maybe you’re concerned...