When you first begin your estate planning journey, chances are good you will hear a lot of different terms that may confuse you. Take “last wills” and “living wills,” for example. Are they the same thing? Or do you need both? Let’s take a closer...
One of the top 10 estate planning mistakes that many people make is having an inadequate plan that will necessitate probate court. Why is probate so negative? It devours time and money that is better invested in the inheritance you leave to your beneficiaries. At...
The easiest and clearest way to leave someone money, possessions, or valuables when you pass away is through choosing a beneficiary. The decision of who to make your beneficiary should be carefully considered and can change with significant life events or legal requirements. Making the...
Discovering that you have been named in someone's will can be surprising. Whether you're a close family member or a distant relative, understanding your status as a beneficiary can help you prepare for the future. However, it's not always straightforward to determine whether you've been...
Estate planning is a sensitive matter that many people avoid, especially if they’re young. But don’t assume that you won’t have to worry about it until the distant future—adults of all ages can benefit from estate planning. A thorough estate plan ensures financial security and...
A properly drafted will can help ensure your assets are properly distributed after you’re gone. Your will should include your appointed executor, named guardians for minors, as well as a list of your assets and beneficiaries. But there are many things that are either unnecessary,...
Have you started working on your estate plan yet? There are many common myths and misconceptions about estate planning that can cause people to make mistakes with their plans, or prevent them from making one at all. If you’ve heard and believed any of these...
Don’t let your family be blindsided by an invalid will. If you’ve already handwritten your will, or if you are considering writing one, it’s important to understand whether or not it is valid in Arizona. Here’s everything you need to know about handwritten wills in...
Since March, many of us have been working remotely at least part of the time. The COVID shutdown has created a new workspace reality. We are used to having virtual meetings, access to social media without restriction, and almost unlimited scheduling flexibility. With our computers,...
When you’re planning your estate, it’s important that you understand the difference between a beneficiary designation vs. a will, so you can avoid costly mistakes that might impact your family’s future. At Phelps LaClair, we want to help you design an estate plan that has...