When an individual leaves a will behind after their passing, the document goes through the probate process to verify its validity and to ensure that the division of the estate follows the deceased's intentions. An executor named in the will or appointed by the probate...
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What are considerations when funding a special needs trust?
Knowing that someday you will not be around to care for your special needs child, you may consider creating a special needs trust. While a trust can do a lot to provide for your loved one, it is important to fund the trust enough for it to cover a variety of possible...
What to consider when planning for your special needs child?
If you have a special needs child, you understand that one of the most important things you must do is prepare for when you die. Ensuring that your child has proper care when you are no longer able to provide it is critical. When making a special needs plan, there are...
What are some issues to avoid when choosing an executor?
Crafting a will may seem like an intimidating part of estate planning, especially when it comes to choosing an executor. You want to choose the best executor possible, so you need to find a person who understands you and your wishes. This choice can have several...
Is a caregiver the same as a legal guardian?
As your parents get older, they probably need help with tasks they used to handle with no problem. If you have come to assist your loved ones with important duties, you probably think of yourself as a caregiver. You may wonder if Pennsylvania law considers caregivers...
What are some challenges of creating a testamentary trust?
If you wish to create a trust for your family, you do not have to make one right away. You can use your will to form a testamentary trust after your death. This allows you to change your trust as many times as you want by updating your will. While a testamentary trust...
Estate administration issues and how to solve them
Did you know that up to 67% of Americans have not planned for after they die? This means that less than half the population has an estate plan of any kind. If you agreed to be the executor or administrator of an estate, you may think this process is relatively...
Will gifting assets hurt your Medicaid eligibility?
Gifting property to family members may give you peace of mind as you get older. You get to see your loved ones enjoy these gifts while you are still alive, plus you can keep your treasured items in the family. However, you should be aware that gifting assets may...
How does an executor use a death certificate?
If you are preparing to serve as an executor for a deceased relative, certain estate documents will be important for you, such as the original copy of the will. However, you will also require multiple copies of the death certificate proving that your family member has...
How does guardianship for adults work in Pennsylvania ?
Guardianships for children are rather straightforward because legally they are unable to make their own decisions due to their age. But a situation gets complicated when the person for whom a proposed guardianship is sought is an adult. Every adult in the United...