It is disheartening to learn that by some estimates, 90% of affluent families have lost the bulk of their resources and prosperity by the third generation. We live in times of chaotic changes for which there is no way to anticipate every outcome. But there are ways to...
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Year: 2022
Why trusts should be part of your estate plan
Estate planning is largely about distributing your assets upon your death. While a will is one useful instrument that can put this in motion, there are several others to choose from and include in your estate plan. A trust may be more suitable for some of your...
Could a transfer on death deed help with your estate plans?
Texas is now among the numerous states that allow people to transfer real property to their heirs through what’s known as a “transfer on death” deed (TODD). Whether you have a will or not, this is something that you may want to consider for your estate plans. It has...
Why parents shouldn’t rely on intestate succession laws
Strictly speaking, creating an estate plan isn't necessary for someone to ensure that their immediate family receives the property from their estate. In theory, all adults in Texas have protection if they die without a will on record. State statute establishes...
3 factors that can extend the length of probate after you die
Creating an estate plan is the first step to ensuring your loved ones are taken care of after you pass. However, if you make mistakes or don’t follow the established rules, you may cause probate to last longer than it must. While this is true, there are also steps...
Tips for choosing a personal representative
Choosing someone to carry out your wishes after your death isn’t as simple of a process as it may seem. It’s important to think carefully about who you choose as your personal representative (also known as the executor of your estate) and why. Some considerations to...
Planning for the future as a new parent
You and your partner have just started a family, and there are exciting times ahead. However, now that you have a child, you also have many more responsibilities. Previously, estate planning may not have been something that you had given much thought to, as you are...
Paying down an estate for wealth preservation
Anyone who has considerable wealth should be concerned about how taxes will impact what they’re able to pass down to their loved ones. Finding ways to minimize the taxes the estate is responsible for is part of creating your estate. This also ensures that your heirs...
Are estates probated in Texas subject to estate taxes?
There are numerous concerns that those with large estates will need to address that individuals with fewer assets don't need to consider. Disputes are more likely to arise when an estate has more valuable property, and creditors and other claimants can seemingly come...
Will a spendthrift trust foment trouble among my heirs?
You’ve been putting off doing your essential estate planning because of a thorny problem involving one or more of your heirs or beneficiaries. There is no doubt that you love all your children and grandchildren. But it is also true that some have struggled with more...