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Do You Have a Blended Family? Estate Planning is Critical for You
People with blended families have the greatest need for estate planning in the state of Texas. Here are a few reasons why.
Read MoreAdvance Care Planning Tools To Help Avoid Probate
Sometimes, even when a person has drawn up a Will, probate of the Will may not be necessary. Advance planning with probate-alternative documents can avoid the need for probate in many cases.
Read MoreDo I Need A Trust? - When You Should & Shouldn't Set Up A Living Trust
I frequently am asked by prospective estate planning clients, "Do I need a trust?" The answer is the classic one: It depends.
Read MoreWhat Types Of Trusts Can You Use For Special Needs?
Trusts are an excellent tool to provide for the future needs for yourself or your loved ones. A trust can be especially beneficial if you have children with special needs, including minor children and adult children with disabilities. You can also create a trust for yourself if you need to apply for Medicaid and your assets exceed the limits to qualify.
Read More6 Compelling Reasons to Have a Living Trust
There are at least six really good reasons for you to have a living trust in your estate planning package.
Read MoreWhat Is A Muniment Of Title Probate, And When Is It Appropriate?
Texas law provides for a shortened, less complicated, less expensive form of probate in specific circumstances called probate as a muniment of title. This funny-sounding procedure really means that your loved ones will is officially recognized as valid by the probate court and placed of public record as notice to third parties to honor the terms of the will for transfer of property. This is a very simple process compared to a full, regular probate.
Read MoreHow Much Probate Costs With And Without A Will In Texas
Many people are afraid of drawing up a will and doing other estate planning because of the perceived high cost. The truth is, drawing up a will is a small cost compared to the cost of probate of an estate if you die without a will and own almost any property.
Read MoreThe Cost Of Probate As An Independent Administration In Texas
An independent administration is the form of probate available when a will contains the proper legal provisions authorizing the independent administration of the estate. This means you can avoid extensive court supervision of the handling of the estate once the will has been admitted to probate.
Read MoreHow Much Does It Cost To Set Up A Trust?
A revocable trust is one that can be completely or partially revoked either during the lifetime of the person creating the trust or afterward. An irrevocable trust means just that: it cannot be revoked.
Read MoreWhy You Should Start Estate Planning In Your 20's
Estate planning isn't just for rich or older individuals. Even young, asset-poor 20-somethings should start thinking about how their property will be distributed in the event of a tragedy. Drawing up an estate plan is not as much an action you need to take for yourself, but one you should take for your loved ones.
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