Retirement accounts, like IRAs, 401(k)s and pensions, are often among the most valuable assets a person leaves behind. Yet many people assume these accounts are controlled by their will or trust. In reality, they follow their own set of rules; understanding those...
One of the most common misconceptions in California estate planning is that the state will take your assets when you die. That’s not how it works. Your assets pass according to your trust, will, beneficiary designations or California intestacy laws. However, assets...
It is a common and frustrating situation. You’ve done everything right: Your parent created a trust, named you as trustee and signed a power of attorney naming you as their agent. Then your parent becomes incapacitated and suddenly you’re told you may need to go to...
Your mom told you not to worry, she had everything handled. You were her agent under her power of attorney, helping her pay bills and manage accounts. When she passed away, you assumed you would simply continue handling things. Then you tried to deposit an insurance...
A revocable living trust is one of the most effective estate planning tools in California. It allows your assets to avoid probate, provides for smooth management during incapacity and ensures an efficient distribution after death. However, having a trust alone does...
A common question in estate planning is whether a mobile home can be transferred into a living trust. The short answer is yes – in most cases, you can transfer your mobile home into your trust – but the process depends on how the mobile home is legally classified....
