The following is a list of important documents that you should have organized and kept together in a safe place. These documents are important to have not only for estate planning but also in times where you may need them such as incapacitation or death, moving, or even in catastrophic events such...
How to Ensure that My Children Inherit My Home
For most of us, our home is our most significant asset and we want to be able to pass it on to our children. Not everyone is aware, however, that there are several ways to do this. In order to understand which method is best for you, consult with a knowledgeable estate...
Where Do I Start with Estate Planning?
Written by Attorney Erin L. Nunes, Partner
I get it! No one wants to talk about Estate Planning. That’s the #1 reason why it doesn’t get done. The 2nd reason estate planning doesn’t happen is because no one knows where to start. Let me tell you that it actually...
How to plan your estate as a Solo Ager
According to Forbes Magazine, it is estimated that there are 12 million adults over age of 65 and are living alone, or 27% of the overall population. That is a staggering number. Of that population, most are women. Ironically, although they are now alone, most were at one time or another, caretakers to...
5 Reasons You Need an Estate Plan
At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., our estate planning attorneys have assisted clients throughout Southeastern Massachusetts and Cape Cod in successfully planning their estates for well over a decade. In times of trouble, like the COVID epidemic, people are more inclined to be concerned about preparing for the unknown, but, ironically, because...
Why Do I Need a Letter of Intent as Part of My Estate Plan?
A letter of intent is a personal document that complements the legal pieces of your estate plan. While it’s not legally binding, it can be one of the most meaningful parts of your planning. This letter gives you a chance to speak in your own voice, share personal wishes, and provide thoughtful...
Common Mistakes Made by Personal Representatives
If you have been named a personal representative (executor) by a family member or friend, you may be overwhelmed by the responsibility and unclear about the tasks at hand. This is a good time to seek the services of an accomplished estate planning attorney who will be able to clarify your duties...
Trust Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Creating a trust can be an important component of estate planning, serving a number of useful purposes, including:
Helping to avoid probateLessening tax burdensProtecting your loved ones (especially those with special needs)Protecting your assetsGuarding your privacy.Trust mistakes can become serious problems. This is why it’s...
Reasons why people feel that they don’t need an estate plan
Many people fail to plan because they are under the assumption that estate planning is wealthy or older people. If you have any assets or any children, you have a need to plan. Estate planning is used to protect individuals and their loved ones of all ages and at all stages of life....
Why Do I Need an Estate Planning Attorney?
If you’re wondering why you need an accomplished estate planning attorney, you might find it helpful to ask yourself why you need any type of professional. Even avid do-it-yourselfers in Southeastern Massachusetts have areas in which they do not feel comfortable taking the reins. Why do you use an electrician? an obstetrician?...