Traditional estate planning (Wills and Trusts) focuses on the accumulation, the preservation, and the distribution of only your financial assets and worldly possessions. It protects material wealth from probate and minimizes taxes. … [Read more...] about What is “traditional” estate planning?
What is Legacy Wealth Planning?
Legacy Wealth Planning is the creation of a definitive plan for managing your total wealth while you’re alive, distributing your estate how you choose after your death, and a clear plan to pass on your legacy. Your estate includes all assets of any value that you own. This includes non-financial assets as well as financial assets, including real property, business interests, investments, insurance … [Read more...] about What is Legacy Wealth Planning?
How can You Get Estate Planning Help?
If you are ready to get estate planning help, you should reach out to an experienced attorney who can offer the assistance you need. Sinclair Prosser Gasior is here to provide you with advice and advocacy through the entirety of the estate planning process. Give us a call at 410-573-4818 or contact us online to speak with a member of our legal team and learn more. … [Read more...] about How can You Get Estate Planning Help?
What are some taxes assessed at death?
In the state of Maryland, there are different types of taxes which may need to be paid after a death has occurred. Estate taxes are assessed both on the federal level as well as in the state, although the amount of money which can be passed without triggering taxes differs in Maryland versus the IRS rules. Estate taxes are paid out of the estate. Inheritance taxes may also be charged to people who … [Read more...] about What are some taxes assessed at death?
What should you do when a loved one dies?
When a loved one has passed away, you need to deal with the practical and legal issues raised by the death, as well as coping with your grief. For example, after a death, the deceased person’s assets need to be transferred to new owners. You need to determine if the deceased had a last will and testament or if assets were held in trust. Trust administration, probate, and other formal steps to … [Read more...] about What should you do when a loved one dies?
What do you need to know about business succession planning?
If you have an ownership interest in a company or are running your own business, you likely want to make sure that this company can be transferred to appropriate people when you can no longer be involved. Whether you are incapacitated or pass away, ending your involvement with the company can be complicated and could create problems for ongoing operations if you have not made the right plans. … [Read more...] about What do you need to know about business succession planning?
Why should you review your estate plan?
It is important to make sure that you regularly review your estate plan in order to make certain that your plan is a reflection of your current wishes. If you do not modify your plan when a major life change happens, it is possible that your plan will not be reflective of your wishes. You do not want an outdated plan to result in your assets not being left to the desired people or to result in … [Read more...] about Why should you review your estate plan?
What happens if I die without a will?
If you die without having a will, intestacy laws are going to determine what will happen to your assets. The specific distribution of assets is going to vary depending upon which surviving family members you have. However, assets will go to the closest family members, such as spouses, children, siblings, or parents. You can find out more here about what happens if you die without a will. … [Read more...] about What happens if I die without a will?
Do you have a valid will?
In order for a will to be valid and enforceable, the will must have been made when you were of sound mind. It is important to ensure that you follow all of the Maryland requirements for creating a valid will. This includes having witnesses and ensuring that your last will and testament is in writing and has been signed appropriately. Learn more here about how to tell if you have a valid will. … [Read more...] about Do you have a valid will?
How can you make sure your minor children are protected?
Every parent wants to be there to raise their children. Unfortunately, if you pass away before your children are adults, you will not be able to raise and guide them. You need to make an informed decision about who can fulfill this role and ensure that your minor children are protected. You will choose a guardian for your children in case something happens to both parents, and you should make your … [Read more...] about How can you make sure your minor children are protected?
