Blended families often assume the property they bring into a marriage will remain theirs and pass according to their wishes. Unfortunately, Texas law is not always that simple.
The Estate of The Union Podcast – Estate Planning Challenges Blended Families Face In Texas is out now. In this episode of Estate of the
Welcoming a child into your family changes more than your daily routine. It creates new legal and financial responsibilities that should be reflected in a comprehensive estate plan.
As more adults enter their later years without a spouse, children or close family support, the need for thoughtful, proactive estate planning has never been greater.
A life estate can allow a surviving spouse to remain in the family home, while ensuring that the property ultimately passes to a chosen beneficiary, such as a church or charitable organization.
Failing to update your estate plan after a divorce can lead to unintended outcomes, including the possibility that an ex-spouse may still inherit from your estate.
The federal gift tax often sounds intimidating. However, most individuals never actually pay it thanks to generous exemptions and strategic planning rules.
Avoiding probate helps heirs receive their inheritance more quickly, privately and with less cost.
The rules governing inherited retirement accounts have changed in recent years.
Outdated beneficiary designations can quietly override even the most carefully written estate plan.
