As an estate plan creator, you need to have an executor in place. This is one of the most - if not the absolute most - crucial figures in your entire estate plan. To that end, you may automatically want to assign one of your closest family members to the spot. But is...
Estate Planning
How a Dementia Diagnosis Could Affect Your Parents’ Estate Plan
An elderly parent's dementia diagnosis can profoundly impact an entire family. Estate planning must balance long-term care needs with a parent's desire to leave an inheritance to family members. These are some essential details to consider. Disease progression...
Why you need to update your estate plan after divorce
When you got divorced, your life changed in many different ways. Because of these changes, your estate plan may not reflect your current wishes. According to Gallup, only 46% of Americans have a will, but if you fall into this group, you should take time to revise...
What 3 elements does a basic estate plan need?
When you die without a will in New York, the responsibility of distributing your assets falls on the state. Having a will helps ensure that you maintain control over what happens to your assets after you die. While a will is an integral part of your estate plan, there...
Is it time to update your estate plan?
When you first set up your estate plan, it can take a lot of time and effort. When you finish the initial set-up, you likely feel relieved that the bulk of the work has come to an end. But an estate plan is not a "set and forget" project. Over the years, you will...
3 documents to add to your estate plan
How old are you? Are you young enough to decide to make an estate plan or old enough to make updates or changes? No matter your age, there are certain items you should have in your estate plan to cover any eventuality. Here are three documents to add to your estate...
What does a trust accomplish that a will does not?
A New York estate plan does not have to be complex to be effective. However, you may find it helpful to create one that contains more than just a basic will. While a will is an undeniably important component of your estate plan, you may be able to accomplish certain...
Is it time for you to create a pet trust?
If you are like many New Yorkers, your pet is a member of the family. While you probably know exactly how to keep your companion animal happy and healthy, others may not be familiar with your pet's needs. This is probably particularly true if your dog, cat, bird or...
How can you streamline your estate plan review?
After creating an estate plan, you also need to maintain it throughout the years of your life. After all, an outdated estate plan is only slightly better than no estate plan at all. However, reviews often seem daunting due to the sheer size or complexity of your...
Why should you periodically update your estate plan?
An estate plan can protect your assets from fraud and allow you to plan for your future with confidence. It can provide your surviving family members with comfort, as well as guidance regarding your final wishes after your death. Keeping your estate plan updated...