The top 3 misconceptions about estate planning
Estate planning is an important process that many adults intentionally avoid. They don't want to think about what may happen when they die and tell themselves that it isn't time to draft a will yet. It is often misconceptions about estate planning that lull people...
How can you prevent stress during probate?
The legal process of probate can feel overwhelming. This is especially true during an already challenging time of grieving. However, there are steps you can take to minimize stress and navigate through this time more smoothly. Stay organized from the start One of the...
What’s the difference between a will and a trust?
Wills and trusts are legal instruments used to manage an individual's assets. They operate quite differently. A will becomes effective only after one's death, while a trust can be active during an individual's lifetime, after death or both. Deciding whether a will or...
4 ways to avoid your house going through probate in Georgia
Probate is the legal process of administering the estate of a deceased person. It ensures the distribution of their assets according to the law. In Georgia, as in many other states, probate can be time-consuming. Homeowners often wonder if there are ways to bypass...
Protecting your assets when planning long-term care in Georgia
Planning for long-term care in Georgia requires careful consideration to ensure the safety of your assets. Common assets people have include home(s), vehicles, retirement accounts and personal belongings such as jewelry. It is important to familiarize yourself with...
How to provide for your pets within your estate plan
When working on your estate plan, you must consider the well-being of everyone in your family, including your pets. You have the right to ensure that your pets receive the care they deserve after your death. Understanding what to include in your will can give you...
What are the financial benefits of downsizing in retirement?
As the nest empties and children embark on their own journeys, retirees often find themselves at a crossroads that presents a unique financial opportunity. Downsizing from a larger family home to a more manageable space can unlock a host of financial benefits, putting...
How to address real estate in a Georgia estate plan
People who are putting together an estate plan need to address a lifetime of resources and relationships in their documents. They will generally focus on their closest loved ones and personal values when determining how to allocate certain resources. The more valuable...
What procedures can happen If I die without a will in Georgia?
If you die without a will, various procedures can happen, depending on the situation. Aside from details of your surviving family and heirs, the appropriate steps can change based on the estate's size and existing financial obligations before death. In Georgia, the...
Are you in over your head as an executor?
You have always prided yourself on being a good friend, someone who was always there for their friends when they needed them most. So, when your dear friend asked you to be the executor of their estate, you stepped right up. You thought that time would be decades in...