Some Floridians might assume that they've done everything necessary to properly prepare their estate plans. However, there are still small errors people might make that can cause problems. For example, estate owners should make sure their beneficiary designations are...
Month: October 2018
Guardianship and estate planning
When a person becomes incapacitated, Florida law allows another person to take over making medical and financial decisions by being appointed a guardian. A guardianship may be filed when a person is temporarily or permanently unable to make decisions for themselves...
Estate planning as a grandchild’s caregiver
Often, people think of their grandchildren when they set up an estate plan. They may want to pass down sentimental items or assets to ensure that their grandkids receive support or valued possessions in the future. For some grandparents, additional issues may arise...
Why is having a valid will so important?
Residents in Florida who haven't dealt with estate law before are possibly feeling overwhelmed the first time they really start looking into it. The , are here to help guide you through the basics first. First we'll take a look at wills,...
Selecting a guardian for children
Florida parents may find it difficult to imagine a time when they will not be there to watch their kids grow up. It is important to remember, though, that sometimes life does not go the way people expect. If parents are unable to care for their children, it is...
Estate planning and charitable giving
Giving to charity is a popular way for people in Florida to show their support for a cause. When incorporating charitable giving into an estate plan, there are several important considerations.The first step is to choose a charity. It is important for a person who is...
Using estate planning
Florida residents may be well aware that estate planning can be used to reduce the taxes that will be assessed on an estate. However, they should be mindful that there are additional, non-tax reasons to construct an estate plan.Handling a disorganized estate can be a...
How to lower estate tax
One of the reasons a Florida resident should strongly consider completing an estate plan is that it's an effective way to lower potential estate taxes faced by heirs. Someone who intends to leave substantial assets to their heirs should consult with an estate planning...
Out-of-state inheritance and estate taxes
Many families are spread across the country these days. This leads to a unique set of issues with interstate transfers of estate property. Florida does not collect death taxes, but other states may do so.Depending on the value of an estate, inheritors might...
How are special needs defined?
If you have considered the idea of setting up a special needs trust for the benefit of your disabled California child, you must first determine whether or not (s)he qualifies for such a trust. Since “special needs” constitutes a very broad term, many...