An executor is a person named in someone's will who -- once confirmed by the court -- oversees the distribution of their estate. There’s a lot that an executor is expected to do. If you find yourself in this position, here's where to start: Locate the deceased's last...
Estate Planning
3 questions to ask your estate executor candidates
You must make many critical decisions when creating your estate plan. One such decision is choosing someone to carry out the wishes expressed in your documents (distribute property, pay debts, etc.). But how do you choose an executor? Start by writing down a list of...
Starting a conversation about life insurance with aging parents
Conversations about important topics often get pushed aside not out of malice but because people are busy and conversing about serious matters generally takes time and a thoughtful approach. One such crucial topic is discussing life insurance with aging parents. While...
Why should you consider a revocable trust?
Setting up an estate plan isn't something most people look forward to doing, but it's a necessary step in ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. The revocable trust is a popular tool that offers flexibility and control. It's an arrangement you...
Is probate administration the same as estate administration?
You may hear or read unfamiliar words and phrases when you enter the realm of estate law following the death of another. Although these terms may sound similar, they typically have entirely different meanings. For example, the phrases probate administration and estate...
Can you leave your home in a 55+ community to your adult child?
The area around Reno and Lake Tahoe as well as Las Vegas and its surrounding region feature an abundance of senior communities. They’re often referred to as “55+ communities” since that’s typically the minimum age for residents. They’re popular among seniors healthy...
Why do you need to update your estate plans?
When you first made your estate plans, you may have thought it was a one-and-done process. However, many people don’t realize that estate planning is a life-long process. In other words, you may need to make considerations later in life that affect your original...
Who pays your unpaid bills after you die?
When you’re getting older, it’s only natural to let your thoughts wander to what will happen to your family after you die – and a lot of older people worry about what effect their leftover debts will have on their adult children. They don’t want their liabilities to...
Can you change an executor?
Your appointed executor will ensure your wishes are fulfilled. They will handle funeral arrangements, take the will to probate and manage assets before distribution, among other duties. Thus, they are an integral part of your estate plan. However, in some instances,...
Why reciprocal wills are preferable to joint wills
Many married couples want to simplify their estate planning as much as possible. If they don’t have complex assets or need to set up specialized trusts, they may just want a will that protects whichever spouse lives longer and then, after both are gone, leaves their...