What Does Dying Intestate Mean?
Most people understand that having some sort of an estate plan is a good thing. However, many of us do not take the first steps to get that estate plan in place because we do not understand the consequences of passing away without a will or trust (which is called intestacy). If you die intestate, […]
The Importance of Funding Your Trust
For many people in Oklahoma, a revocable living trust is a valuable tool to ensure that their finances are well managed during periods of incapacity and that their loved ones are financially secure upon their passing. Funding your trust is a critical component of preparing for your future. Not only does a completely funded trust […]
Nosy Neighbors Can Find Out About Your Probate
Many people think of probate (the process of collecting, managing, and distributing a deceased person’s money and property) as a private process. However, because wills are filed at the courthouse, probated estates become a matter of Oklahoma public record. That means your nosy neighbor Nellie can simply go down to the courthouse or hop online […]
How to Prevent Your Heirs from Squandering their Inheritance
Studies have shown that the largest contributing factors to generational loss of wealth are a lack of communication and trust among family members and the failure to prepare heirs. Often, fear is what underlies the lack of communication and trust that inevitably leads to unprepared heirs. Following are some of the fears that prevent people […]
Make Gifts Your Family Will Love But the IRS Won’t Tax
Do not let political and financial speculation prevent you from making tax-free gifts to or for the benefit of your loved ones. Two of the main types of tax-free gifts are annual exclusion gifts and medical exclusions. Make Annual Exclusion Gifts Annual exclusion gifts are transfers of money or property in an amount or value […]
Pros and Cons of a Family Limited Partnership
Owning your own business or investment portfolio can be incredibly rewarding. However, to preserve the fruits of your labor and dedication, you must do everything you can to protect it. Whether you seek to protect yourself, your investments, and your family from taxes, creditors, or probate, a family limited partnership (FLP) is a strategy worth […]
3 Reasons we run away from estate planning
It can be hard to get motivated about your estate planning; for some people it sounds about as fun as getting a root canal. However, you also probably want to make sure that your loved ones are protected and receive your hard-earned money and property – regardless of whether you have $10 million or $10,000. […]
Planning for your family’s education
If postsecondary education is in your family’s future, whether for your children, grandchildren, or other family members, consider including one of the following tools in your estate plan. It can be an excellent way to help provide for the education needs of your loved ones. Irrevocable Gifting Trust Using either the annual gift tax exclusion […]
Who is on your Oklahoma estate planning team?
Who is on your Oklahoma estate planning team, and what does your team actually do to support you and help you plan for the future? This team includes your estate planning attorney, financial advisor, accountant, and insurance agent. They work together to make sure that you are protected during your lifetime and that your loved […]
Estate planning later in life
Estate planning later in life comes with unique questions and choices. Although creating or updating your estate planning may seem like a daunting task, a proper estate plan can help address the concerns you may face as a senior citizen. We are here to help you. The biggest question is: how do you protect your […]