A special needs trust (SNT) is the cornerstone of your loved one’s financial security. This resource allows them to receive funds without jeopardizing their eligibility for crucial means-tested benefits. However, both your family’s circumstances and the rules...
estate planning
Can you revoke an existing will?
You can revoke an existing will. Life changes, and your final wishes should reflect your current reality. In Ohio, you have several options for legally canceling a will. Understanding these can help you follow specific state rules and avoid costly mistakes that could...
How can you include stepchildren in your estate plan?
When you build a family that blends children from different relationships, estate planning becomes more important. Stepchildren do not have the same automatic inheritance rights as biological or adopted children under Ohio law. If you want them to share in your...
What age and mental capacity requirements exist for valid wills?
Creating a valid will in Ohio involves more than just writing down your wishes. The state has clear rules about who can make a will. Understanding these rules helps ensure your will stands up in court and carries out your intentions. Age requirements in Ohio for...
What is an Ohio “small estate affidavit” and how does it work?
If you’re handling an estate in Ohio, you may come across the term "small estate affidavit." This process helps you bypass the traditional probate process in certain situations, making estate administration faster and easier. Let's break down how it works and when it...
How your estate plan can protect assets from nursing home costs
Long-term care can cost thousands of dollars every month. That is why many Ohio families worry about how they will pay for nursing home care. Without a plan, the government may take money from a person’s estate to recover Medicaid costs. An estate plan can help...
What are health care directives?
Health care directives are an essential part of estate planning that lets you control your medical treatment if you become unable to communicate your wishes. These legal documents help ensure your preferences guide medical care, even when you can’t speak for yourself....
How do I start estate planning?
Estate planning involves making decisions about what happens to your assets after you pass away and ensuring your loved ones are cared for. You can begin this process by taking manageable steps, which will make it less overwhelming. Assess your assets The first step...
How does estate planning differ for unmarried couples?
Estate planning is important for everyone, but it has some differences for unmarried couples. Unmarried couples must take extra steps to protect each other because marriage comes with automatic legal rights. This blog post will explain how estate planning works...
How does divorce impact your existing estate plan?
Divorce changes many aspects of life, including how to manage and distribute assets after death. A well-prepared estate plan protects financial interests, but divorce requires significant updates. Without adjustments, an ex-spouse could unintentionally remain a...

