Estate Planning

What should I know before the death of my spouse?

February 11, 2022
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We know that talking about our better half’s death is an impossible conversation. But, in truth, it is a conversation every couple needs to have before one passes. And, if a couple plans appropriately, the surviving spouse can focus on grieving, instead of logistics. If an estate plan has not been done, do it now…

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Why should I consider Medicaid planning?

December 3, 2021
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Many people in the Central Valley might not think about qualifying for Medicaid. Designed to help pay for the medical care of those with limited means, Medicaid is available to those who meet the program’s income and asset requirements. Many Californians who are planning their estates would not meet these requirements at present. However, a…

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Are there special considerations on entrepreneurial estate plans?

November 4, 2021
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Entrepreneurs are a special breed. They have trained themselves to learn on the fly, solve problems, create solutions and have become the main economic engine of the U.S. economy. However, this honed ability to pivot and problem solves breeds a mentality that focuses on short-term, pragmatic thinking, which can be unhelpful for estate planning. Never…

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Are estate plans different when no kids are involved?

August 5, 2021
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Like the old saying goes, nothing in life is guaranteed, except death and taxes, which is why we consistently recommend that our readers get an estate plan done. An estate plan touches on both death and taxes and ensures that one’s wishes are followed after their death. And, while some may think that not having…

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Preparing to make an estate plan

June 30, 2021
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It is helpful to know how to prepare for the estate planning process. There are several steps that estate planners can take to help ensure they are ready to develop an estate plan that meets their needs and accomplishes their wishes. Inventory property and assets – estate planners should inventory their property an assets including…

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Thinking about estate planning with a step-by-step approach

June 17, 2021
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Everyone has estate planning needs, but those needs are unique. Your needs will be different from your family members, neighbors or friends. The needs of a farmer in rural California, for example, will be different from a resident of Los Angeles or San Francisco. However, no matter how different you believe your estate planning needs…

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Power of Attorney basics

April 8, 2021
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A power of attorney is an essential component of every California resident’s estate planning repertoire. A principal appoints an agent or a number of agents to act on the principal’s behalf. POAs can be general, allowing the agent to make any decision or limited, in that the agent’s powers are restricted. Why is a POA…

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California personal representatives can be removed

January 13, 2021
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Whenever an estate has to go through the probate court, one of the first things that happens is that the court will appoint a personal representative, who may also be called an executor. This person, usually a family member or someone else close to the deceased, has an important job in the probate process. The…

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Beginning an estate plan

December 11, 2020
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Having an estate plan is important for creating a legacy for all families but 56 percent of Americans do not have a current plan. Estate planning is essential for protecting yourself and your family if you suffer sickness or an accident or die. Regardless of a family’s wealth, most plans have essential components. Estate plan…

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Young parents should draft wills to name guardians for children

October 21, 2020
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When people in California become parents for the first time, there are many aspects of their lives that will completely change. There are also many things they begin thinking about regarding how they will raise their children. They will need to research and choose child care options, they will need to make decisions about diet…

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