Individuals often assume that creating a will guarantees that their assets will distribute to designated parties seamlessly. However, for a will to be legally binding, the document must meet certain strict legal requirements. For instance, a will must include...
What are the three options for handling your business after your death?
Ensuring that your estate plan covers every aspect of your life is essential to prevent issues after your death. While you may find it easy to assign assets to heirs, there is one asset that often creates the most complicated situation. Deciding what to do with your...
What should you never do as the executor of an estate?
After a loved one appoints you as the executor of the will, you have a lot of responsibilities. To ensure that the process rolls forward smoothly, you need to secure the assets, probate the will, notify beneficiaries and more. With a long to-do list, Forbes also has a...
Contesting a will
Many people die before they have created an estate plan, which can lead to confusion and heartache for those left behind. Sometimes there is confusion and heartache even with a last testament in place. The testator, or creator of the will, may make mistakes while...
How should I handle my vacation home when estate planning?
Estate planning is essential for everyone and even more vital for those who have acquired significant wealth or assets. If you are a Texas resident with a vacation or second home, you may be wondering how you should pass it down to your loved ones someday. According...
How does debt affect survivors after your death?
Most people have some debt, and when they die, that debt does not automatically go away. You may wonder if you will leave your loved ones with a pile of bills to pay after your death. According to CNBC, what happens with your debt depends on the type of debt, your...
Should I put my child’s name on my deed?
Avoiding probate is a paramount concern for many seniors who are setting up their estate plan. There are many good reasons to avoid probate. Generally speaking, the public nature of probate is distasteful for many, and it can be expensive and time-consuming. However,...
How does probate work in Texas?
When planning your estate in Texas, you should understand how the state handles probate. Some of your assets may go through this process, which involves the court supervision of property distribution, tax payments and creditor claims. Review the laws about Texas...
What is a simple will?
It is never too early to start estate planning. Many people believe that they do not need to consider starting an estate plan until they are nearing retirement; however, the reality is that many people would benefit from having a will in place at a much younger age....
Differences between commercial and residential leasing
One of the biggest mistakes that new business owners make is not understanding the difference between residential and commercial leasing. Most individuals have engaged in residential leasing at least once in their lifetimes, and many mistakenly assume that the same...
