Wills and trusts are essential legal tools for managing and distributing assets after death. While they share similar goals, each serves a distinct purpose in estate planning. Explore the differences, how to select an executor or trustee, and the risks of do-it-yourself estate planning.
by ACTEC Fellows Elizabeth K. Arias and Jean Gordon Carter In the realm of inheritance disputes, ACTEC Fellows answer a critical question: Can one sue if excluded from a family member's will? Understand who is generally guaranteed the right to inherit. The paramount exception lies in spousal...
Learn what changing an irrevocable trust entails, what it means to decant a trust, what courts can do and other pitfalls from trust and estate experts.
Estate planning experts explain the different types of special needs trusts, what to consider to avoid losing public benefits like Medicaid, and other potential pitfalls.
How to transfer assets to minor children, the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA), 529 plans, naming a caregiver for a minor child in a Will and more.
Assets such as life insurance, annuities, pension plans, 401ks and IRAs have beneficiary designation forms as part of the set-up process.
Understand how to plan and manage your digital assets such as photos, email accounts and passwords during life and in your estate documents.
ACTEC Fellows discuss 5 reasons why you may want to update your Will and Estate Plan, such as after a move or divorce, when your children have grown or have substance abuse problems, or if you own a business.
