In the first bank closure nationwide since 2017, the Texas Department of Banking closed Enloe State Bank in Cooper, Texas, on May 31, 2019. Although bank failures are uncommon, they are not rare: according to Bankrate.com, banks have failed in each of the last ten years, with the exception of 2018. Bank failures are significant because […]
Equality is a noble concept and one many people turn to when deciding how to divide up their estate. There are many circumstances in which equal distribution of assets among beneficiaries is the right choice, but there are some cases where identical inheritances do not make the most sense. In such situations, the difference between what […]
Planning ahead has obvious benefits. Whether you’re planning a vacation or researching for a job interview, it’s always smart to outline your priorities and anticipate potential challenges that may arise. Planning your estate has similar benefits. With plans clearly established, your wealth and assets are protected should you pass away or become incapacitated. It’s important to […]
Below are a few excuses you may tell yourself as to why you do not need to do your estate planning. Spoiler alert – you might be very wrong. “I don’t have enough money to need a will” This is one of the most common reasons people don’t have a will. But wills are about far […]
When Aretha Franklin died in 2018, it would have been logical to assume that she had a well-thought-out estate plan. Unfortunately for her heirs, that was not the case. As Forbes Magazine reported, her heirs found three different wills, all handwritten. All three have been submitted to the probate court, and the court will decide if […]
A will or trust contest can derail your final wishes, rapidly deplete your estate, and tear your loved ones apart. But with proper planning, you can help your family avoid a potentially disastrous will or trust contest. If you are concerned about challenges to your estate plan, consider the following: Do not attempt “do it yourself” […]
If you are thinking about putting together an estate plan, it is important to consult with an attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in this area of law. Your initial meeting with an estate planning attorney is a good opportunity to discuss your family’s financial situation as well as your concerns and goals. If you are […]
While we all want to provide financial help to our loved ones—whether they are family or close friends—it is important to understand that how the money is classified will directly affect your estate planning. Accordingly, the intent behind the transfer of the money is key when determining if it will be considered a loan, gift, or […]
