Author Archives: Jeff McKenna
What is an Ethical Will?
An “Ethical Will” is a statement of personal values. It can set forth life philosophies, wishes, testimonials, almost any final message you want others to know.
Storing Your Estate Planning Documents
Gathering necessary paperwork in one location will save your loved ones an irritating game of “find the forms” after your death. This is the perfect time to decide on a safe place to store all your estate-planning documents.
Common (and Costly) Estate Planning Mistakes
Mistakes are often made with the best of intentions. Here are some estate planning mistakes you can avoid now to save yourself (and family) a fortune later.
How To Choose an Estate Planning Attorney
Individuals who purchase “estate plans” at seminars are rarely properly served. Seminars should be attended for educational purposes and not for the purchasing of an “estate plan.”
Death and Title to Assets
Many times when someone dies owning property in his or her name, the surviving family members do not take the necessary steps to clear title to the property. Although this is common, it can create future problems.
How To: Lifetime Gifts
It may be better to give than to receive but, careful examination of both personal and tax considerations should be made before embarking on a course of lifetime gift giving.
How Can Taxes be Saved Upon Death?
“Cost basis” is the term used to describe the original cost of an asset. It is used to determine the taxable gain on the sale of that asset.
What is a Personal Representative?
A personal representative is the person named in a Will to handle the Will-writer’s property after death. It is the name of the person often referred to as an Executor or Administrator.
Estate Planning for Young Children
No one likes to think about death much less plan for it. Many surveys indicate this is one of the biggest factors in not doing estate planning. However, doing estate planning is an act of love.
Don’t Forget to Plan for Pets!
Many of us have pets that we love. What would happen if you were no longer able to care for them? Here are answers to some basic estate paw-lanning questions.
