Tustin Estate Planning Law Blog
Things not to include in your will
A will is a part of estate planning, but it is not designed to control every decision about your property or personal wishes. Some instructions may be handled through other estate planning documents or beneficiary arrangements. Understanding what may not belong in a...
Which assets should be addressed in a California estate plan?
An effective estate plan should create an organized record of your property, explain how each asset is owned and identify where essential documents can be found. In California, the way an asset is titled determines how it will transfer after death. Some property may...
Expanded small estate limits can minimize probate delays
The probate process can be a long and costly one for those administering estates with extensive or complex property. That’s a key reason that California residents take advantage of estate planning strategies like revocable living trusts, gifting assets while they’re...
3 tips for discussing your estate plan with your beneficiaries
Adults who create an estate plan may think that the work is over once they have their documents together. One thing they may forget about is telling their beneficiaries about the existence of this plan. If you have your estate plan written out and haven’t discussed it...
Some financial resources should not be addressed in a will
For people drafting or updating their wills, preserving resources is often a top priority. They want to provide clear instructions so that people they select receive their most valuable assets after they die. Many people prioritize naming beneficiaries for their homes...
When should I start considering estate planning?
It is easy to associate wills, beneficiaries and inheritance decisions with retirement or old age. However, there is no specific age at which a person suddenly needs an estate plan. The best time to start is usually when there are people, property or financial...
Signs that your estate planning documents need to be updated
Creating an estate plan provides a way to put important decisions in writing, from who should receive certain property to who can manage financial or health care matters when necessary. However, five or ten years later, those same instructions may no longer accurately...
Irrevocable trusts are valuable estate planning tools
Creating an estate plan means thinking about what you want to happen with all the assets you own. Some people opt to set this plan up via a will, but that’s not always the most appropriate option. Using a trust is another option that has several benefits worth...
Dealing with a loved one’s credit card debt after they’re gone
Americans have a staggering amount of credit card debt. That means many people die owing thousands of dollars on one or more credit cards. That doesn’t even take into account other types of debt. What happens if a loved one has passed away with balances on their...
The benefits of planning for organ and anatomical donations
There are many medical decisions that are deeply personal matters. Some people have religious or moral beliefs that prevent them from taking certain medications or even receiving blood transfusions, for example. Others want their personal misfortune to benefit others,...
