George was a successful entrepreneur. He accumulated significant wealth during his lifetime, including several real estate parcels, a wide array of securities, retirement plan accounts and IRAs, and various collectibles, in addition to the home he owned jointly with his wife, Theresa. He also took out several life insurance policies on his life.
In his will, George designated Theresa as the beneficiary of most of the assets but divided up some of the other property between his two children. George named his wife and children as equal beneficiaries on life insurance policies. Sadly, George died earlier this year. (more…)
An estate planning rule of thumb is to review (and, if necessary, revise) your estate plan in light of major life events. Such events include a marriage, birth of a child and a divorce. A second marriage also calls for an estate plan review. You’ll want to provide for your current spouse but not inadvertently benefit your former spouse. And if you have children from each marriage, juggling their interests can be a challenge. (more…)
You probably don’t have to be told about the need for a will. It’s been said over and over again. But do you know what provisions should be included and what’s best to leave out? The answers to those questions may not be as obvious.
Basic provisions
Typically, a will begins with an introductory clause, identifying yourself along with where you reside (city, state, county, etc.). It should also state that this is your official will and replaces any previous wills. (more…)
