Can a Trust protect your identity? Let's say you win the lottery. Or you're a celebrity or have a high-profile job (like a politician, a judge, and/or a law enforcement officer). Perhaps you've got a lot of debt. Or maybe you're just a really private person. Whatever the reason, you want to disconnect your name from property that you own. So, can a Trust help you do that? The quick answer is probably not. Keep reading. The longer answer involves three primary considerations.
Read MoreFAQ: Is adding my adult children to my bank account(s) a good idea for estate planning?
Many clients wonder what to do about bank accounts for estate planning purposes. There are three (or four, see below) main options to consider:
Do nothing;
Designate a beneficiary for your bank account(s);
Add someone(s) else as owner(s) of your bank account(s); or
If you have a Revocable Living Trust, retitle the bank account(s) in the Trust's name.
The best option(s) for you may not be the best option for another person. And it might not be what your friend or family member did (or told you to do). Each option has pros and cons, and I always encourage clients to consider which option(s) meet their goals best. Keep reading for the basics on each option, along with some points of consideration.
Read MoreQ: What makes a Will legal?
A: North Carolina allows for three kinds of Wills and what makes each legal varies based on the type.
Keep reading for more info.
Read MoreFact: Chadwick Boseman died without a Will. And he’s not alone in this. Research shows that nearly 70% of adults in the United States don’t have Wills. So, what happens if you die without a Will? In a nutshell: the laws of your state take over. What does that mean? Keep reading…
Read MoreFAQ: What happens to debt at death?
If you die with debt, those debts generally become the responsibility of your estate. Keep reading for all the info.
Read MoreLegal information versus legal advice: what’s the difference? And, why does it matter?
Read MoreConsidering buying your Will online? Here are four key reasons to proceed with caution.
Read MoreQUESTION: Single people don't need wills, right?
ANSWER: It depends on what you want to happen to your property when you die AND what types of property you own at your death.
Read MoreA Durable General Power of Attorney is a crucial estate planning tool. Having one in place is immensely helpful if/when you need assistance managing your affairs. Keep reading to find out four key things about this document. #UnstuckEstatePlanning #AmpersandLaw
Read MoreNeed to talk to your loved ones about estate planning? Here are a few do and don’t tips to help get you started.
Read MoreHave you ever heard anyone talk about 'avoiding Probate' but aren't exactly sure what that means? This week, #unstuckestateplanning is focusing on five common questions about Probate.
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