The main purpose of every trust is to preserve assets that will eventually pass or transfer to beneficiaries. In order for the trust to be valid, the terms must clearly recognize that the assets will be transferred to beneficiaries. In addition, trusts are also used to: Continue reading “Purpose of a Trust”
Tag: revocable trust
Trust Basics
Estate planning is a complex process. Estate planning often includes a Last Will and Testament and may also include utilizing a trust as well as advance directives such as a power of attorney, health care proxy, living will, and HIPPA release form, among others. While these concepts may be foreign, these estate-planning tools assist with creating a comprehensive estate plan. One of the most important tools in every estate plan is a trust. A trust is created to protect property and assets. In order for a trust to be valid it must: Continue reading “Trust Basics”
Having Assets in Multiple States
Today, it is common for retirees to have residences in multiple states. Some choose to keep his or her family home and acquire a small home in Florida to visit during the cold months. When a person who owns residences or financial accounts in two different states passes, an ancillary probate proceeding must be commenced where the other real property is located. An ancillary proceeding is an administrative proceeding that is required in addition to the original probate process of a Last Will & Testament. Usually, this administrative proceeding is required because a person owns real property outside of his or her home state.
Placing Property In A Revocable Trust
A common estate planning mistake occurs when individuals own or acquire property outside of a trust. This can lead to unintended tax consequences and exposing property to probate or creditors.
Placing property in a revocable trust provides benefits such as allowing assets to avoid the probate process. In addition, by placing property in a revocable trust, it will allow family members or loved ones to have control over the assets in the event that the creator of the trust becomes incapacitated. Otherwise, a court may need to appoint a guardian.
