Blended families often face unique challenges when dividing assets. Without careful planning, disagreements over wills can strain relationships. Fortunately, planning ahead can help families avoid conflicts and protect their loved ones. Discuss wishes openly with...
Estate planning involves making strategic decisions to preserve wealth and provide for loved ones. Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts (SLATs) offer unique advantages for couples looking to reduce estate taxes and maintain financial security. Understanding the benefits of...
Creating an estate plan is one of the most important things you can do to protect your assets and provide for your loved ones after you’re gone. Trusts are a valuable tool that can help you manage your assets and ensure your wishes are carried out. With several types...
When a loved one creates an estate plan, it's meant to reflect their true wishes. However, sometimes others may improperly influence them, leading to unfair distributions. Recognizing signs of undue influence can help protect your loved one's intentions and ensure...
In today's digital age, many people include cryptocurrency in their financial portfolios. With assets like Bitcoin and Ethereum becoming more common, you should consider how to include digital currencies in your estate plan. Properly managing cryptocurrency ensures...
When discussing wills, we usually refer to legal documents with instructions on distributing assets after a person’s death. However, an estate plan might also include another type of will: a living will. This document indicates end-of-life plans and preferences,...
Long-term care services, like nursing home care, in-home care, and assisted living, can be expensive. If you are not prepared for these costs, they can quickly deplete your savings. Estate planning isn't just about deciding who gets your assets when you pass away;...
Probate can be quite complicated, so understanding the process and its implications is crucial. This is especially true when it comes to the ownership and transfer of personal assets like vehicles. In Illinois, the probate process can affect how a deceased...
Creating an estate plan is just the beginning of a lifelong process to secure your wishes and ensure the proper distribution of your hard-earned assets. This plan, consisting of crucial legal documents, serves as a roadmap for your loved ones, guiding them through...
Undue influence occurs when someone persuades a person to act against their own free will, usually for the benefit of another person. In estate planning, this can mean someone is manipulated into changing their will or other estate documents. In Illinois, avoiding...
