Articles Posted in Living Trusts

Today, I want to discuss the upcoming changes as we approach the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017. This significant tax legislation, which brought numerous tax reductions, is set to sunset on December 31, 2025. Let’s dive into what this means for you and how to prepare for the changes…

Life insurance is a crucial element of a comprehensive estate plan, offering financial security to your loved ones after you’re gone. However, one often overlooked aspect is determining who should own your life insurance policy. As an estate planning attorney with over 20 years of experience, I, Jonathan Alexander, am here to guide you through…

When it comes to estate planning, one of the most frequently asked questions is whether or not to discuss your plans with your family. As an experienced estate planning attorney, I believe that open communication can be incredibly beneficial, but it must be done thoughtfully and strategically. Here are some insights and recommendations on how…

When it comes to estate planning, creating a Revocable Living Trust can be a smart and efficient way to manage your assets and ensure your wishes are honored. Let’s delve into the key purposes and benefits of establishing a living trust. Ensuring Your Wishes Are Honored A Revocable Living Trust allows you to specify exactly…

Hello everyone, let’s dive into a topic many families consider: whether or not to add your children to the title of your home. It’s a common question, especially among parents looking to simplify inheritance. But, is it really as straightforward as it seems? Let’s explore. Adding Kids to Your Home Title Many think adding their…

As a single parent, you constantly juggle numerous responsibilities while ensuring your children’s future is bright and secure. I understand that your primary goal is to safeguard their future. I’m Jonathan Alexander, an experienced Orange County Estate Planning Attorney, with a passion for helping individuals, families, and business owners protect their assets and loved ones.…

In the heart of Orange County, California, there lived two married couples: Tom and Mary, and Jack and Susan. Both couples had successful careers, beautiful homes, and children they adored. They spent their weekends at the beach, enjoying the sun, and attending their children’s soccer games. Like many in their community, they knew estate planning…

Did you know that it’s National Estate Planning Awareness Week?  In 2008, the U.S. Congress passed House Resolution 1499 designating the third week in October as National Estate Planning Awareness week.  According to Caring.com’s 2022 Wills Survey, over 66% of Americans believe that having an estate plan is important, but only 1 in 3 Americans…

A revocable living trust is a type of trust that can be modified during the creator’s lifetime.  California residents commonly use revocable living trusts to: Name the individuals who will inherit your property (your “beneficiaries”). Avoid probate (a time consuming and expensive court proceedings where a judge determines who inherits your money and property). Avoid…

A trust is a contract. The person who creates a trust is called a grantor. The person who carries out the terms of the trust is called the trustee.  The persons or organizations who receive property or money from a trust are called beneficiaries.    The trust is, in essence, an agreement between the grantor…