If there is one silver lining to the craziness that was 2020, it is that many people have realized the importance of estate planning. However, according to a 2020 survey by Caring.com and YouGov, something is holding many back from actually drafting an estate plan. In...
Creating a financial power of attorney
When people create a will or trust in their estate planning, they usually include a living will or durable power of attorney as part of the estate planning documents. But another important advanced directive that sometimes gets overlooked is a financial POA that will...
How do I start the estate planning process?
Oh boy, what a seemingly loaded question, but really, it is not. Times are tough right now, for some financially, but for all, psychologically. Every day feels like 2020 just piles it on, and the world seems crazy. We are bombarded by the reality of our own mortality...
What are common ways to pass on business ownership?
As a business owner in Florida, you should prioritize business succession planning. This is a primary area of focus in estate planning. You might want to retire at some point in life, or you may want to work until you no longer can. Whatever the case, you need to have...
Is a family member the best option for an executor?
As a Florida resident working on your estate plan, the first step is to choose an executor. Your gut instinct may have you leaning toward a family member. After all, it is important for an executor to get along with you. You know your family members best, too. But is...
What happens if someone refuses to accept a power of attorney?
If you hold a power of attorney for someone else and wish to handle that person's business for him or her, then it is essential that others recognize the validity of your power. If they refuse to accept the POA, it could leave you in a situation where you cannot carry...
How to choose an estate executor
Whether you are starting a family or getting ready to retire from your career, financial planners emphasize the importance of planning your estate as soon as possible. A vital component of your estate plan is the last will and testament, which dictates who you would...
What are the reasons I need an estate plan?
Estate planning is something you have likely heard about, but maybe not given much thought. Nobody wants to think about the end of their life. However, it is never too early to get a plan in place. Not having an estate plan is a huge mistake that will have lasting...
What happens to your property if you do not have an estate plan?
When you fail to plan for your death, the state will step in and handle things for you. Intestate laws are those that determine where your estate goes if you left no instructions. These laws can get quite complicated, depending on your family structure. It is always...
Can I create a trust to care for my pet?
Your pet is a treasured part of your family, but the law considers your pet property. This may leave you wondering what will happen to it after your death. Is it possible for you to leave instructions for its care? Can you provide financially for your pet after your...
