As a parent of a child with special needs, you may wish to continue providing for your child after your death. Having a clear estate planning goal like this can help you select the right tools for your situation. It is especially important to use the right estate...
Pre-Nuptial and Post-Nuptial Agreements
Why estate plans need to be updated regularly
Your estate plan may be the most important document you leave behind for your loved ones. It is vital that you keep your estate plan up-to-date at all times—you never expect the unexpected. If your estate plan has not been updated before shorty your die, your assets...
Do’s and don’ts of being the executor of an estate
The role of executor, or personal representative, of a Massachusetts estate is a significant responsibility. You may feel touched by the deceased individual’s trust in putting you in charge of their final affairs yet overwhelmed by your duties. Whether you serve as...
Is a pre or postnup necessary?
Getting a second chance at a happy marriage is exciting. Remarrying can come with a lot of joy and happiness. However, there may be certain precautions you want to take before jumping in with both feet. Pre and postnuptial agreements have been a sort of taboo subject,...
Things to Know About Your Power of Attorney
I have received several calls recently about Powers of Attorney (POA), so now is a good time to write about them. Why Do I Need One? The time may come when you are no longer able to pay your bills and manage your finances. This may be a temporary situation, after...
What you need to know about Massachusetts estate tax
When you plan your estate, you want your loved ones to receive the maximum amount of property and assets you intended for them. Because of this, the prospect of your estate paying considerable estate taxes after your death can be frustrating. Massachusetts is one of...
When should you update and estate plan?
An estate plan is a vibrant, dynamic gathering of documents that should be updated as regularly as possible. It should not be a handwritten note in your dresser or a private document gathering dust in a security deposit box. When you keep this plan relevant, it can be...
Why funding your trust is so important
Most people create a trust because they want peace of mind. They want to know their assets will pass on easily once they are gone, or that if they become incapacitated, an appointed trustee can handle their affairs. However, as the grantor of the trust, you must do...
Baby Boomers – Don’t Leave Money on the Table. Part 4: Survivors Benefits
Your death will have a devastating impact on your family in many ways. If you are the major breadwinner, your loved ones must deal with the loss of your income at a time when they are least able to cope. Understanding the Social Security survivor's benefits rules now...
Pre-Nuptial and Post-Nuptial Agreements – Do You Need One?
Advising a young couple to enter into a pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreement is uncomfortable. Basically, I am asking them to plan for divorce. But the divorce statistics are compelling. More than two million people divorce every year in the United States, with a 52%...
