What Is a Charitable Remainder Trust?
A trust is a legal arrangement in which one party (the trustor) gives another party (the trustee) the right to hold and manage assets for the benefit of the trustor or a third party (the beneficiary). A charitable remainder trust (CRT) is a special type of trust that lets you support...
Five Things Farmers and Ranchers Need to Know About Estate Planning
Farmers and ranchers face special considerations in estate planning due to the unique nature of their assets and operations. Key among these is ensuring the smooth transition of land, livestock, and equipment while minimizing tax burdens. Many farmers and ranchers must also navigate challenges related to land leases and multi-generational family...
Should Young Families Start Estate Planning?
Estate planning is an important step for young families eager to secure their future and protect their loved ones. It’s a common misconception that this process is only necessary for the elderly or the affluent. In reality, estate planning offers a pathway to peace of mind, ensuring that your family is...
What Is a Pour-Over Will in Texas?
In estate planning, a pour-over will is a strategic tool designed to ensure that all assets seamlessly transition into a trust upon an individual's passing. This legal document acts as a safety net, capturing any assets not previously placed in the trust, thereby streamlining the distribution process according to the established...
What Is Intestacy?
In Texas, like elsewhere, intestacy laws dictate who inherits property when someone passes away without a will, often leading to outcomes that might not align with the deceased's wishes. Understanding intestacy is important for anyone concerned with how their assets would be handled in their absence and wants to ensure their family's...
What Are the Disadvantages of a Holographic Will?
A will is a key step in managing your estate, and some people in Texas opt for a holographic will, attracted by its simplicity and cost-effectiveness. This handwritten document may seem like a straightforward solution, but it carries significant disadvantages that could impact your wishes and your loved ones' future. From legal...
What Is the SECURE Act? How Will It Affect My Retirement?
The SECURE Act has transformed American retirement planning with its sweeping changes. This legislation affects how you save, when you can access your funds, and the way your retirement assets are handled after you pass. It adjusts the age for required minimum distributions and modifies rules for inherited retirement accounts, offering new...
What Single Parents Need to Know About Estate Planning
Have you ever wondered how to ensure your children's future is secure, even when you're not around? Estate planning is a crucial step for single parents, offering a way to protect your loved ones and manage your assets effectively. It's about making thoughtful decisions today that provide peace of mind and clear...
Creating a Will as a Young Adult: Why It’s Crucial and How to Begin
As a young adult, you're likely juggling life's big milestones - landing your first job, buying a car, or even starting a family. But have you paused to consider the future of your assets in these exciting times? Many think estate planning, including creating a will, is reserved for the later stages...
Estate Planning in the Age of AI and Technology: What to Prepare For
Estate planning is entering a transformative era with the advent of AI and technology. Imagine a world where your digital assets, like online businesses, cryptocurrencies, and social media accounts, are as vital to your legacy as physical properties. As these digital footprints grow, understanding how to manage and protect them becomes...