If you have written a will, you are doing better than many. According to one recent study, 68% of Americans do not yet have a will. Writing your will, of course, is only part of the estate planning process. You must also regularly review the document to ensure it...
How do you name a legal guardian for your child?
Making a will involves a variety of difficult choices, but if you have minor children, choosing a guardian to care for them in the event of your death is likely one of the most daunting. U.S. News notes that failing to name a guardian for your minor child leaves a...
What types of estate planning documents should you include?
Everyone should consider an estate plan. During the estate planning process, there are several documents that you should consider. According to AARP, the proper estate planning documents can ease your family’s struggles at the time of your death or in case you suffer...
3 important estate-planning steps for new parents
Becoming a parent changes more than just your sleep schedule. Once you become responsible for another human being, most aspects of your life undergo change, and if you have not given much thought to your estate plan, now is the time to do so. Estate planning may...
Millenials and estate planning
If you are a young adult or have not yet reached middle age, you could overlook end of life issues, thinking that it is unnecessary to address these issues at this point in your life. Many Millenials do not have an estate plan set up, but there are a number of reasons...
How long may the probate process last in New Jersey?
From the time that your estate's administrator submits your will to the New Jersey probate court, the process may take up to a year to complete. Depending on the type of property you own and your beneficiaries, however, the procedure may wrap up sooner. As noted by...
Why is estate planning important for people without children?
Estate planning is particularly important for people who have minor children so they can appoint a guardian to care for them in the event of both parents' death. However, is it really necessary if you do not have children? Failing to create a will or any type of...
What is a living will and why should you have one?
Accidents, serious illnesses and other issues may strike unexpectedly, and they can affect people of all ages and health conditions. Due to serious injury or illness, you may lack the ability to make decisions regarding your care. Thus, important choices may fall into...
3 signs you may need to revisit your simple will
If you have already drafted a simple will, you are doing better than most. After all, according to the American Association of Retired People, only about 40% of Americans have gone through the estate planning process. While writing your initial will is a major...
Is putting my child on the deed to my home a good idea?
A major goal of most estate planning is to avoid probate. Probate can provide a major hurdle to your heirs when it comes to accessing your assets after death. As long as your probate ties up your assets, your heirs will not be able to use them. A strategy that some...