Creating an estate plan is the best step for securing assets and ensuring your wishes after you are gone. Considering the sensitivity of these matters, disagreements are likely to arise among family members. When crafting yours, it is helpful to know how to lower the...
Estate Planning
How should you discuss estate planning with your parents?
As people navigate the complexities of older adulthood, estate planning is a topic that often lingers in the background. It involves making decisions about the management of affairs after one's passing. Discussing estate planning with your parents is a responsible and...
What Happens If You Die Without A Will In Illinois?
Proactive steps are paramount when it comes to establishing an estate plan. Putting it off is natural. No one wants to think about, let alone plan for a time when they are no longer alive. However, the lack of planning can create chaos should you die without formal...
Countless, complex, and effective trust options
Estate planning is a necessary step to communicate your wishes regarding everything from medical care to distributing assets to your potential heirs. A large part of the process involves trusts. Trusts can help with tax issues and creditor protection. They can also...
How can older adults suffer from undue influence?
Estate planning is an important process for older adults since it ensures that people distribute assets according to their wishes after they pass away. However, this process can be fraught with risks, and one of the most significant concerns is the potential for undue...
What should executors expect to do during probate?
When it comes to estate planning, executors are necessary for the smooth transition of assets. Being an executor requires careful attention to detail, organization and a willingness to understand complex financial matters. Here are key aspects executors should know...
When should your heirs receive their inheritance?
Planning your estate is an act of foresight and care, showing your concern for the well-being of your loved ones after you die. In Illinois, part of that planning might include deciding when your heirs should receive their inheritance. While leaving a significant sum...
6 frequently asked questions about estate planning in Illinois
Estate planning is an important aspect of financial management that many people overlook or put off because it seems like a daunting task. Answers to these frequently asked questions can help you get through the process more easily. 1. What is estate planning? Estate...
Strategies to Avoid Probate in Illinois
Probate is the legal process that distributes a deceased individual's assets to heirs or beneficiaries. In Illinois, like many other states, this process can be time-consuming, expensive and complicated. Therefore, many individuals choose to use strategies that can...
Essential documents for your Illinois estate plan
You can protect your assets when the need arises by creating a comprehensive estate plan. However, in Illinois, including specific documents is essential for an effective estate plan. This article emphasizes the importance of incorporating particular documents to...