Choosing the right Agent under a Power of Attorney is one of the most important choices. This article discusses the qualities of an ideal Agent and qualities to avoid in selecting an Agent. Read on to learn more. Selecting an Agent … [Read more...] about Selecting an Agent
Estate Planning is Too Important to Procrastinate
Only 44% of Americans have even a simple Will. We procrastinate for several reasons. Learn those reasons and how to push past them. Learn, briefly, why planning is important. Estate Planning is Too Important to Procrastinate … [Read more...] about Estate Planning is Too Important to Procrastinate
6 Important Estate Planning Considerations – Part 1: Incapacity
One of the most important considerations in an estate plan is incapacity planning. This article describes how an estate plan provides incapacity planning and the documents which may be used to accomplish that planning. It also looks at how having a plan in place may relieve stress during an emergency. 6 Important Estate Planning Considerations – Part 1: Incapacity … [Read more...] about 6 Important Estate Planning Considerations – Part 1: Incapacity
The Intimacy of Estate Planning
The last thing many people would equate to intimacy is estate planning. Just ask anyone who’s ever had to face reality after a terminal illness or devastating accident, they will tell you that things become very personal faster than you can say power of attorney. This week, we shed the logistics and focus on the ties that bind and the intimacy of estate planning. Facing Mortality Most of us realized long before we began preparing our will that we wouldn’t live forever. Whether that brutal fact … [Read more...] about The Intimacy of Estate Planning
The Conversation Project
A recent survey unveiled a few surprising mindsets in America and how we handle end of life matters. It’s being called “conversation disconnect” and it shows that 90 percent of us know we should have an end of life conversation with our loved ones, yet less than 30 percent of us have made that effort. The Conversation Project conducted the survey and as estate planning lawyers, we know all too well the awkwardness and uncertainty about discussing our final wishes with our family members. But we … [Read more...] about The Conversation Project
Are There Disadvantages to a Power of Attorney in Garden City NY?
Even the best legal protections can sometimes come with risks. For the most part, the benefits of staying current with your legal affairs outweigh any risks. Still, the risks remain. We’re often asked what, if any, disadvantages there are to having a power of attorney in Garden City NY. In our efforts of remaining transparent with each and every one of our clients, it’s important they understand not only the benefits of a power of attorney, but the risks too. First, we take a look at what … [Read more...] about Are There Disadvantages to a Power of Attorney in Garden City NY?
Estate Planning in New York NY: End of Year Resolutions
Before we head into the always-busy holiday season, why not make a few end of year resolutions? Specifically, why not make a few legal and financial end of year resolutions? Here’s a check list of realistic goals you can set and easily meet before we ring in the new year. Taking it Tax Free Did you know you can give up to $13,000 to as many people as you wish every year? It’s true – and if your estate is big, you know how crucial it is to take advantage of estate tax reductions. Not only that, … [Read more...] about Estate Planning in New York NY: End of Year Resolutions
Power of Attorney and Guardianship: Differentiating the Two
Did you know that a survey from 2011 showed most seniors and family members had put off estate planning because they were overwhelmed with the various legal terms? It’s human nature; we tend to avoid those things we don’t quite understand. Proof of that was revealed recently when my sweet husband kept “forgetting” to pick up baking powder at the grocery store. When he finally owned up to it and said he’d found baking powder and baking soda, instead of a quick text to me, he just opted to … [Read more...] about Power of Attorney and Guardianship: Differentiating the Two
What if You Are Incapacitated?
Most individuals have a plan in place for their passing, but what if you are incapacitated? Your family has to continue functioning while simultaneously coping with caring for you after an illness or injury takes away your ability to care for yourself. Who will pay the bills and with what money? Who will make medical decisions on your behalf? Who will make other major financial decisions for the family? These are some of the major questions that your attorney should address when your incapacity … [Read more...] about What if You Are Incapacitated?
