Absolutely. A Living Trust protects your assets, bypasses both living and death probate, can reduce or even wipe out estate taxes, and keeps … [Read more...] about Is a Living Trust a smart move for someone in the LGBTQ+ community?
Do unmarried couples need more estate planning than married couples?
Yes. State intestacy laws are built for married spouses, meaning that without a plan your assets default to your legal relatives—not your … [Read more...] about Do unmarried couples need more estate planning than married couples?
Are my estate planning documents public?
Only your Will becomes part of the public record after probate. Your Revocable Living Trust and Powers of Attorney remain private, so using … [Read more...] about Are my estate planning documents public?
Is there a tax if I give some of my property to my spouse or partner?
Maybe. Federal law allows married couples to give each other an unlimited amount of property without gift tax during life or estate tax at … [Read more...] about Is there a tax if I give some of my property to my spouse or partner?
Will my spouse or partner automatically become my child’s guardian?
If your spouse or partner has not legally adopted your minor child, the court will determine who should serve as guardian based on the … [Read more...] about Will my spouse or partner automatically become my child’s guardian?
Can I decide what happens to my spouse’s or partner’s remains?
If you’re legally married or in a state‑recognized registered partnership, you automatically have that authority. When a state doesn’t … [Read more...] about Can I decide what happens to my spouse’s or partner’s remains?
How can I be certain I’ll be allowed to visit my spouse or partner in the hospital or an assisted‑living facility?
If you’re legally married or in a state‑recognized civil union or domestic partnership, showing proof of that registration is enough. … [Read more...] about How can I be certain I’ll be allowed to visit my spouse or partner in the hospital or an assisted‑living facility?
Can my spouse or partner make medical decisions for me if I’m too sick to choose?
If you’re legally married or in a registered partnership your state recognizes, your spouse or partner can step in. Otherwise, state law … [Read more...] about Can my spouse or partner make medical decisions for me if I’m too sick to choose?
Can my spouse or partner manage my finances if I’m incapacitated?
Only if you give them legal authority in advance. Sign a General Durable (Financial) Power of Attorney naming your spouse or partner as your … [Read more...] about Can my spouse or partner manage my finances if I’m incapacitated?
