Author Archives: Site Administrator
How important is estate planning for singles?
Most Floridians know that estate planning is essential, especially if they have a spouse and children. Good estate planning, including a will, is the best way to express one’s final wishes to their heirs. But, what if someone is not married and has no children? Is estate planning just as important for a single… Read More »
Simple estate planning steps that can provide real benefits
Most Florida estate planning experts agree that Floridians do not need to be wealthy to enjoy the benefits of a good estate plan. A good estate plan can help ensure that all of the testator’s wishes are properly carried out. However, it also does not matter if the testator is a financial mogul or… Read More »
Do’s and don’ts on leaving a trust as a beneficiary for an IRA
When it comes to estate planning, some Florida residents are like ostriches and bury their head in an attempt not to think about it. However, there is one estate planning technique that must not be ignored or considered lightly. It must be carefully thought out and the benefits weighed against the disadvantages. This procedure… Read More »
What estate tax issue can now also benefit same sex couples?
Until recently, same sex couples could not take advantage of the same tax implications benefits that heterosexual couples could. That changed on June 25 of 2015 with the Supreme Court’s ruling on the legality of gay marriage. But that historic decision did more than just grant same sex couples the right to get married… Read More »
Trusts can be an important part of a complete estate plan
Trusts can sometimes be complex and intimidating to understand but they can also be an important part of a complete estate plan. A will and the documents that accompany it, which can include trusts, is the solid foundation of any estate plan. A variety of documents can accompany an estate plan, including wills and… Read More »
What estate tax benefits are available to same-sex couples?
Until recently, same-sex couples could not take advantage of the same tax benefits that heterosexual couples could. That changed on June 25, 2015, with the Supreme Court’s ruling on the legality of gay marriage. However, that historic decision did more than just grant same-sex couples the right marry. It also granted them the right… Read More »
Updating an estate plan now can help prevent problems later
There aren’t many people who like to work on estate planning documents. It constantly reminds them of their own mortality and can be tedious. However, failing to take the time to update an estate plan can lead to major disaster later on. If a testator doesn’t update the beneficiaries to their estate after a… Read More »
Typical IRA mistakes that can hurt your estate planning
An IRA can be the cornerstone of an effective estate plan. It can guarantee income to one’s beneficiaries as well as protect the testator’s assets from excessive taxes. But, far too often, people make mistakes when initially filling out their IRA forms. These mistakes can then be forgotten until the testator’s assets go through… Read More »
Are there trusts that can help someone who has special needs?
Most Florida residents only want the best for their loved ones and they will always try to provide for them even after they are gone by including them as estate beneficiaries. However, some of these family members may have special physical, mental or emotional needs and they may be receiving benefits from government programs… Read More »
Steps that must be taken when seeking a Florida guardianship
It can be heartbreaking to realize that a beloved family member is no longer able to make their own decisions. But, should that time occur, many Florida residents choose to appoint a guardian for their family member to take care of them and make their medical, financial and personal decisions. However, the process of… Read More »
