Whether you want to set up a special needs trust on your own behalf or for a loved one who has a disability, it is very important to understand the requirements. A special needs trust could offer various perks. Aside from peace of mind, this estate planning strategy...
estate planning
Things to consider when updating your will
Your will should always be a work in progress. As your life changes, your will should adapt as well. Most estate planning professionals recommend evaluating and updating your will once a year. This lets you address any changes in a timely manner. There are a few...
What does a funeral trust cover?
If you do not want to burden your close friends and relatives, you are probably thinking about including funeral arrangements in your estate plan. Fortunately, from how the service unfolds to where your remains end up, you can take care of virtually all end-of-life...
Who will inherit your estate if you die without a will?
When you die intestate, which means without a will, the state law dictates the distribution of your property. For this reason, it is a good idea for everyone to have an estate plan in place because it lets control remain with you. The Legislative Commission notes that...
Why do fewer than half of Americans have an estate plan?
If you feel like you need an estate plan but do not know where to start, you have a lot of company. According to CNBC, only about 33% of all Americans have an estate plan. Many people know the importance of an estate plan, but many put it off for various reasons....
What is the Medicaid penalty period?
The purpose of Medicaid is to help low-income seniors pay for long-term care and medical care. For this reason, you may only qualify if you meet the stringent financial eligibility requirements. Because the income and asset limits are so low in most states, most...
What state and federal estate taxes do Ohioans pay?
Estate taxes are often a worry for those trying to settle an estate. However, they generally only apply to a limited number of situations. The Ohio Department of Taxation explains the state estate tax ended for most estates. Most estates also will not have to pay...
Payback trusts and non-payback trusts
If you are preparing to set up an estate plan for a loved one with special needs, you have different options. It is vital to go over the unique details of your circumstances and your disabled loved one's situation in order to identify the most sensible solution that...
How can you include your art collection into your estate plan?
Creating an estate plan may feel overwhelming at first, especially when you have a lot of assets to consider. When it comes to your estate plan, you need to account for all of your assets, including any collectibles and art. If you have an art collection, Bank of...
3 important reasons to update your estate plan
Many individuals will take the time to develop a comprehensive estate plan and then avoid revising it when necessary. While most experts agree that all the estate planning documents should be reviewed every three to five years to identify necessary changes, there are...

