South Florida Estate Planning News
Recent Posts and Articles
Newlywed Estate Planning Essentials
When starting a new marriage, there is much to think about: communication, living conditions, holiday plans, financial stability, and the wedding itself. However, something often overlooked by new spouses is the importance of creating an estate plan. It can be hard to think about what would happen if your spouse became ill, incapacitated, or worse, but an estate plan can ease those difficult times. An estate plan typically includes a will or trust, but the most important documents for a new couple are Health Care Directives and Powers of Attorney.
Read MoreProtect your Loved Ones this February
Today, it is common for adults to be in long-term committed relationships but be unmarried. If you have a life partner and are unmarried, it is imperative that you have an estate plan if you want your partner to receive your money or property at your death or if you want them to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf if you are alive but unable to make your own decisions. If you rely on your state’s laws, an unmarried partner will likely receive nothing at your death and will have no authority to make decisions on your behalf.
Read MoreWinning the Lottery: Financial Nightmare or Dream?
When your bank account balloons, so might your fan base. Family, old buddies, and even scammers may line up for a share. It’s okay to say no. Still, you might want to give some away to people or charities. Remember, big gifts might mean big taxes. For 2023, you can give away $17,000 without tax or $34,000 with your spouse. For 2024, it’s $18,000, or $36,000 for couples.
Read MoreWhat Happens to My Car Lease If I Die?
Your car may be one of the most valuable assets you own, but what will happen if you pass away during the lease term or before the car is paid off?
Read MorePop Quiz for August
Many folks think that the person who looks after your children must be the same person who handles their inheritance. But that’s a myth! You can pick a loving, caring guardian for your children and choose someone else entirely to manage the money side of things.
Read MoreCOUNTDOWN TO A STRESS-FREE 2023
We want to protect our lives, our autonomy, and our future to enjoy the years to come worry-free. Here are six ways to enjoy a stress-free 2023! The countdown begins:
Read MoreHoliday Recommendations for Family Harmony
If your goal is family harmony, it could be a huge blunder to fail to consider the emotional ties children may have to their parent’s possessions.
Read MorePlanning for Your Digital Legacy
Instead of existing in photo albums and on videotapes and DVDs, most of our family photos and videos are now digital. Even if they lack commercial value, they certainly have sentimental value that you want to preserve for your family and friends. Social media accounts containing your photos and videos can also have value to your loved ones when you are gone.
Read MoreAre “Unequal Inheritances” inherently unfair?
Not all adult children are always treated equally upon their parent’s passing. Quite often I’m asked the question regarding the best way to leave children an unequal inheritance (unequal portions of an estate). It isn’t always a question of an unequal inheritance; sometimes it is a question of what is…
Read MoreHow to Protect Your Family’s Financial Risk
Also called “Continuity Planning” our goal it to reduce any long-term risk for our businesses and family investments. Businesses should also consider business succession plans (what happens if the unthinkable happens) or simply planning for retirement as well.
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