Caution:  Writing Your Own Deed to Avoid Probate Can Lead to Unintended Consequences

One common way to try to avoid probate of real estate after the owner dies is to hold the title to the property in joint names with rights of survivorship with children or other beneficiaries.  While the best way would be to set up a revocable trust and fund the trust with the property, it can be accomplished…

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7 Key Things You Must Know About Living Trusts: Part 1

While most Baby Boomers have wills in place, millions of soon-to-be-retired Americans haven’t yet established estate plans and made critical decisions about future care. Many also don’t appreciate the sheer diversity of planning instruments available to ensure their wishes, protect their assets and prevent fighting among beneficiaries. A living trust, for instance, provides a slate…

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Why Reviewing Older Life Insurance Policies Matters [Better, More Efficient Benefits May Await!]

Perhaps you first obtained life insurance 10 or more years ago, but you haven’t updated your insurance plan (or thought about it much) since. You should consider reviewing your policies. A re-assessment has the potential to pay off significantly. The insurance industry has come to understand that we are all living longer than they originally…

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Tennessee Community Property Trusts: An Exciting Solution for Married Clients Who Have Appreciated Assets

You and your spouse have worked hard and saved. You’ve enjoyed the good fortune of having assets that have appreciated over time. At the same time, you’re confused about which estate planning solutions can help you preserve your assets and allow you to pass on your wealth without your having to pay exorbitant state or…

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