In the picturesque communities of Orange County, California, life is often bustling with family events, career pursuits, and social engagements. With so much going on, it’s easy for families to put off important tasks like estate planning. But what happens when someone dies without a will or estate plan, also known as dying intestate? This…
Continue reading ›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…
Continue reading ›A grantor retained annuity trust (“Grat”) is a type of irrevocable trust that allows the creator (the “Grantor”) to avoid or minimize gift and estate taxes while retaining the right to receive an annuity payment. How Does a GRAT Work? Here’s a high-level overview of how a GRAT operates: What are the Benefits of a…
Continue reading ›A charitable remainder trust or (CRT) is a type of irrevocable trust that allows the person who creates it (called the “Grantor”) to receive income from the trust and even split the income with other beneficiaries for a period of time. After the period expires, the assets that remain in the trust are gifted to…
Continue reading ›A Spousal Lifetime Access Trust or “SLAT” is a special type of irrevocable trust. A SLAT is created by one spouse for the benefit of the other. The spouse who creates the SLAT is referred to as the grantor and the spouse who receives gifts from the SLAT is referred to as the beneficiary spouse. …
Continue reading ›Most of my clients create living trust centered estate plans. Living trusts have several advantages over will-centered estate plans. Drafting the living trust; however, is just the first step. Properly funding your trust is critical to ensure that you are prepared for the future. An error in the funding process could result in your assets…
Continue reading ›A living trust is a legal document that describes how you want to transfer your assets when you die. In this fashion, it’s like a will but creating a living trust centered estate plan has several advantages. It allows you to avoid probate. The transfer of your assets can remain confidential. If you merely have…
Continue reading ›10 Reasons Why It’s Important to Have an Estate Plan Proper estate planning ensures that you control the distribution of your assets. It also protects your family, avoids taxes, and eliminates future controversies. Bottom line, it makes sure you have a trusted party to protect your affairs. If you want your loved ones and assets…
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