Other than living wills and health care powers of attorneys I find most individuals are not well equipped to prepare their own wills, revocable trusts and financial powers of attorneys. But my view is undoubtedly jaded by the fact not a week goes by such that I have to tell someone that their documents do…
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My father, actually stepfather, is thinking of appointing me as his durable attorney-in-fact.
What does this require of me? Under a general financial power of attorney you will be appointed to represent your step-father, the principal, with respect to his financial affairs. This means you are in a fiduciary relationship and held to high standards of good faith, fair dealing and undivided loyalty with respect to your father’s…
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My life insurance policy will barely cover my funeral
When I die who or what process will be used to pay my debts? When we die a new legal entity emerges, called a “Decedent’s Estate”. Sometimes all assets are held jointly with a spouse and the spouse voluntarily takes care of any outstanding hospital or medical bills, the funeral home and other debts, including…
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I have an IRA and depend on it for retirement income
But as my largest asset I want to be sure I can leave it to my three children and avoid probate. What should I do? Individual retirement accounts or IRAs were often overlooked or disregarded when estate planning was undertaken, but as a result of 401k and pension plan rollovers IRAs hold approximately 27% of…
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