When the marriage of Gina and Edward ended in divorce and it became necessary to allocate property, the trial court charged with ruling on this matter had to sort through multiple gifts made by Gina’s father while the couple was married. Understandably, Edward generally argued as much as possible that such gifts were made to …
While making a “house call” this week that involved a family’s bitter fight over property, it occured to me how disrespectful folks have gotten. We all have elders, I was raised to respect my elders even if I did not agree. Therefore, this week I will attempt to explain the importance of a Will and …
Not only do I write Wills, I also see a lot of homemade Wills. All Wills are not the same and while there are some similarities, each situation requires thought and detail in the way their affairs are handled. Homemade or Will forms can cause many issues, so I thought I would present you …
In Texas, understanding portability and estate tax is not just advisable; it’s essential for anyone involved in estate planning with estates that exceed $30,000,000.00. Estates valued below $30,000,000.00 are exempt from estate taxes, but may need to consider portability. While most estates fall below $30,000,000 and that number seems like a high ceiling, with the …
If you are like me, raising your kids, working, trying to take care of yourself, and now caring for an aging parent(s)? That makes us part of the Sandwich Generation. We are not alone—almost half of America’s 40- and 50-year olds are in the same boat. Most of us have adjusted to balancing children, work …
Continue reading “How to Take Care of Yourself as You Take Care of Others”
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or making a change in lifestyle, purchasing a home is a major milestone. With that comes new responsibilities. In this week’s column I will address the steps you should take regarding those responsibilities. Be sure to update your address with key agencies. After settling into your new home, one of your first …
Continue reading “Important Estate Planning Steps for New Homeowners”
The inheritance you leave could be eaten away by taxes or given to the wrong person(s). This week, I will try to provide tips to avoid this. Everyone should have the basic estate plan components. A life insurance policy, a Will, a designation of agent to control disposition of remains, a durable power of attorney …
Farming and ranching aren’t just jobs. They’re a way of life, often passed down through generations. But without a proper estate plan in place, that legacy can slip away, sometimes in just one generation. All too often, land that’s been in a family for decades is sold off and developed, simply because no one made …
Thinking about our own death is not an easy subject, especially if you have children. Imagining someone else raising your children feels unimaginable. It’s emotional, it’s uncomfortable, and it’s the last thing you want to picture. But as a parent, it’s a conversation you must have, and a decision you need to make. Because if …
Many folks I have counseled tell me they have added a trusted adult child to their financial accounts. Their reasoning is that it gives the child access to help them. That is a perfectly reasonable step to take, but it is important to consider the ramifications, especially as it may affect federal deposit insurance …
