
Strategic Estate Planning
Preparing for your future estate planning needs is essential to protect your estate assets and provide financial security and peace of mind for your family members in times of medical crisis. Taking the necessary steps now in creating a Living Trust and Medical Power...

What is probate court?
Demystifying the Probate Court Navigating the complexities of a probate court can often feel like traversing a labyrinth, yet its function is essential in estate management. The legal authority is designated to oversee the administration of the deceased's estate, a...

Essential Estate Planning Documents for Retirees
Embracing a New Chapter with Confidence Retirement marks a profound life transition, and under the expert guidance of Mark Fishbein and ALTA Estate, meticulous planning becomes not just prudent but imperative for financial security and peace of mind. As you step into...

What Is a Power of Attorney (POA)?
A Power of Attorney (POA) is more than just a legal document—it’s a vital tool for ensuring that your financial, legal, and healthcare decisions are managed by someone you trust when you cannot handle them yourself. Whether due to illness, disability, or simply being...

How Can a Last Will and Testament and Power of Attorney Work Together?
Estate planning isn’t just about deciding who will inherit your assets—it’s about ensuring that your affairs are managed smoothly during your lifetime and after your passing. Without the proper legal documents, your loved ones may face financial burdens, legal...

Understanding Children’s Rights When a Parent Dies Without a Will
When a parent dies without a will, known as dying intestate, it can create uncertainty and confusion for the surviving children. Understanding a child's rights is crucial to ensure they receive what they are legally entitled to. Intestate laws vary by state and...

How to Remove a Trustee from a Family Trust
A family trust is a legal arrangement in which assets are held by a trustee on behalf of family members, known as beneficiaries. The primary goal of a family trust is to protect and manage assets for current and future generations, providing stability, reducing estate...

What Is a Family Trust and How Do You Start One?
A family trust is a legal arrangement in which assets are held by a trustee on behalf of family members, known as beneficiaries. The primary goal of a family trust is to protect and manage assets for current and future generations, providing stability, reducing estate...

How to Avoid Gift Tax: Top 7 Strategies
Gift tax is an often overlooked aspect of financial planning that can have significant implications if not properly managed. The IRS imposes this tax on transferring property from one person to another without receiving the total value in return. While gift tax rates...

Intestate Succession: What Happens When You Die Without a Will
Intestate succession is the legal process governing your assets' distribution if you die without a will. When you pass away without a legally binding will, the state's intestate laws determine who inherits your property. This seemingly straightforward process often...

How Long Do You Have to Transfer Property After Death?
The property transfer after death is a fundamental aspect of estate planning that ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes. So, how long do you have to transfer property after death? The answer depends on several factors, including state laws,...