Historically, parents have kept their estate plans secret from their adult children. The reasons for this are many- fear of upsetting their children, wanting to avoid pressure from their kids to get an "advance inheritance," fear that one of the children will abuse...
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Estate Administration And Probate
What situations make probating an estate necessary?
It is not always required to go to probate court to pass an estate to heirs. Still, some circumstances do not allow you to avoid probate. It is important to know some of these situations, particularly if you are going to be an estate executor in the future. According...
How planning your estate now can avoid sibling squabbles
Even though it is not the most pleasant topic, most adults understand the need for a will and an estate plan. Most adults know this benefits them, giving them control over their assets and allowing them to designate beneficiaries. In the best-case scenario, children...
What should executors need to know about state estate taxes?
Part of your duties as an estate executor is paying taxes. You not only have to file the last tax return for the individual if he or she does not have a spouse to file but also you must file a tax return for the estate. Estate tax filing must be done if the value is...
How may a personal representative pay the deceased’s debts?
Massachusetts residents who die with unpaid debts may have them settled through their estates. The personal representative that you name in your will becomes responsible for filing your documents with the probate court and distributing your assets after your death....
What are the responsibilities of an executor?
When creating an estate plan, it is important to think long and hard about who will hold the position of executor. This is not simply a label or title with no substance: it is a demanding position that only certain people can fill. To start, it is crucial to know the...
How can you deal with the stress of probate?
Dealing with your role as executor after a loved one dies can be a stressful job. Although you may have all the technical skills needed to accomplish this task, dealing with the variety of paperwork and beneficiaries can leave you overwhelmed. Having ways to deal with...
The drawbacks of estate planning without an attorney
If you have put off your estate plan for far too long, you are certainly not alone. There are many aging individuals who would rather seek a cheap and quick do-it-yourself alternative to formal estate planning. Estate planning attorneys offer their services to guide...
What are some traits of a quality executor?
When you think about the future, one of the most pressing concerns you may have is your estate and your assets. After you die, you need someone to fulfill all the legal requirements of your will and deal with your beneficiaries. Learning about the traits that are...
Trustees must keep beneficiaries informed
If you become appointed as a trustee or designated as a trust beneficiary, it is essential to understand that trustees must keep beneficiaries informed with respect to trust administration. It is very important for trustees to recognize their obligations in order to...