If a person in California dies without an estate plan, the state will decide what happens to that person's assets. The outcome could be very different from the person's wishes, and for this reason, all adults should consider having an estate plan. A last will and...
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When to make changes to a will
Californians with any assets or property to their name should consider drafting a will regardless of their age. Wills can help ensure that assets are allocated to beneficiaries as intended. It is also important to revise wills when needed to add beneficiaries, such as...
Estate planning: wills vs. trusts
In California and across the U.S., it is important to have an estate plan. This plan can be guided by a will, one or more trusts, or a combination of both. Usually, either the will or the trust will have primary importance in an estate plan. When individuals use a...
How to begin an estate plan
You may be putting off creating your estate plan for various reasons. One common excuse is that people are afraid of addressing the required work. However, crafting an estate plan in California may be easier than you think. By approaching it methodically, you can end...
Selling estate property may take some time
Family members in California likely want to take advantage of the high value of real estate when they sell the deceased's home. However, this cannot happen automatically after someone passes away. Instead, they have to work within the court process and the executor of...
How to create an estate plan
Having an estate plan is important for every California adult. It protects people's assets if they become ill or die, and it can provide protection for minor children. An estate plan also may affect how beneficiaries are taxed. Many people put off estate planning, or...
Estate planning is not one size fits all
Estate planning is a multi-faceted process. That's why many California residents find they need guidance as far as designing their estate plans. Someone who has experienced a recent life change, such as gaining an inheritance or the birth of a child, may want to think...
