CNBC reported that only 33% of adults in the U.S. had an estate plan in 2022. At a minimum, most people should have a will and a revocable trust. A revocable living trust is a legal arrangement that allows individuals to manage and distribute their assets during their...
Caring For You In The Long Term
Year: 2023
The Georgia probate process
Probate is the legal process that takes place after someone dies. It involves managing the estate, distributing assets to beneficiaries and paying debts. Understanding how probate works in Georgia can help you navigate this often complex and lengthy process. Filing...
Arranging care for a beneficiary with special needs
In the United States, more than 4% of children have some sort of disability, according to Census.gov. Ensuring proper care for your special needs child in the event of your passing is key to providing them with a bright future, even if you are not present. Understand...
What are the limits to a legal guardian’s power?
Guardians of persons and estates hold significant authority to make important decisions for their wards. Some of their powers involve entering into contracts or disposing of properties on behalf of the persons under their guardianship. However, the law puts a limit on...
When should adults in Georgia update their healthcare directives?
An advance healthcare directive is a document that offers protection and peace of mind for an adult with health concerns and/or unique personal values. Those facing significant medical challenges may draft an advance directive as they develop treatment plans with...
Dealing with problematic heirs and beneficiaries as an executor
As administrators of estates, executors must fulfill their duties efficiently and effectively. Otherwise, they would be accountable for errors. Unfortunately, some executors who have to deal with problematic heirs and beneficiaries may be unable to perform their...
Can I set up a special needs trust for myself?
When estate planning, one of the main considerations of individuals is their financial security if they ever face disability. For this reason, many consider creating a special needs trust (SNT) for themselves, specifically the first-party SNT. However, since the law...
3 long-term care issues to address when estate planning
Those preparing for retirement in Georgia, as well as anyone putting together a comprehensive estate plan, may benefit from addressing the possibility of long-term care needs. No one wants to imagine themselves becoming dependent on others again, but that is reality...
How priorities help you decide what to include in your estate plan
Estate plans are uniquely created for each individual. What makes them unique is each person’s goals and priorities. Laying your cards on the table and deciding what to focus on will help you create an estate plan that fits you perfectly. What is your end goal? We all...
Red flags to watch out for when choosing an executor
Executors perform a vital role. They help honor your wishes and ensure that your heirs receive the properties you leave behind after your death. Because of these, it is crucial that you carefully choose whom you appoint as your executor. When selecting one, it helps...