Trusts

A revocable living trust is a valuable estate planning tool for protecting assets, avoiding probate and minimizing certain tax ramifications. A well-funded trust with clear instructions can be a blessing to heirs who may then receive their inheritances without having...

Many people in California save for retirement by funding an Individual Retirement Account, or IRA. If they pass away before depleting it, or if they choose to will the IRA to their child or someone else, the tax consequences may be significant, particularly with...

Many people in California, when creating an estate plan, have the desire to leave money to a charity. One effective way is by establishing a charitable trust, which is funded by a donor and leaves a portion of assets to a charity and could also leave some to heirs,...

Many people who want to pass on assets to loved ones in the event of their death can do so by having a legally-binding will created. However, for some people here in California, that is not the only option and there may be other possibilities that better suit their...

A common part of estate planning in California involves people placing some or all of their assets into a trust. Though many people know of this option, there are many misconceptions around it that can sometimes lead people to make a choice that is less beneficial to...

Many families across California include a child with special needs. Some parents worry about who will care for that child in the event of their death and how that caregiver will cover the necessary costs for someone who may not be able to generate income. One way of...

Asset protection via a trust can be an important part of estate planning. It can keep your property out of the reach of someone who may attempt to sue you. You may face a lawsuit for virtually any reason. You may be sued for negligence after becoming involved in an...

You know that injuries, disease or aging could lead to a disability. You may become mentally incapacitated. For instance, those who get diagnosed with Alzheimer's may slowly see their mental abilities decline, even when in good physical health.By no means are you at...

You have a lot of terms to sort through if you're thinking about creating a trust as part of your estate plan. You can use revocable trusts, irrevocable trusts, special needs trusts and much more. One term you may have heard is an express trust. What is this and when...

You set up a trust to transfer your assets on to your children when you pass away. You put some of your assets into the trust at the time. However, you do not pass away for another 10 years. In that time, you gain more assets that you forget to add to the trust. You...