Debt often remains outstanding in someone’s name after they pass away. An individual may not have entirely paid off their credit cards, they may have some outstanding utility bills or they may even owe property taxes or income taxes. It’s possible to plan for some of...
Seattle Estate And Probate Blog
Why estate planning intimidates so many people
As an adult, estate planning is one of the most important processes you can take part in. It ensures that your hard-earned savings go to the right places upon your death. You can also make plans for who will look after your minor children should something happen to...
Questions to ask when preparing for your role as estate executor
Has a friend or family member approached you about serving as their estate executor after they die? Most people are honored to receive such a request and agree before considering the matter carefully. Proper estate administration involves performing complicated tasks...
2 reasons to be skeptical of last-minute estate plan updates
Estate planning documents may be updated several times throughout someone's life. The needs of a college student or a young professional are vastly different from the estate planning requirements of a new parent or a retired adult. Although it is best to start estate...
Why young parents need to craft estate plans
If you have recently had or adopted a child and you don’t yet have an estate plan in place, it’s time to start crafting one. Generally speaking, all adults should have an estate plan in place, even if they don’t own much property or have children. Once you turn 18,...
How can POD accounts impact your estate plan?
One of the major parts of estate planning is simply passing your assets onto your heirs and any other beneficiaries that you choose. Many of these assets are financial in nature. You may have investment accounts, bank accounts and much more. One option that you have...
Questions to ask yourself when making a medical power of attorney
The true advantage of estate planning is the power it gives people to retain control over many aspects of life. It allows you to preserve your assets, provide for your family and control your healthcare through all stages of life and health. In medical matters, most...
Are there risks to contesting a Washington will?
After a loved one has passed on, you most likely want to honor their wishes, including how they wanted their property and assets to be distributed. However, sometimes the only way to fulfill their legacy may involve challenging their will. Maybe one of the...
Red flags that an estate dispute may be coming
Ideally, an estate will be distributed to the heirs without any sort of conflict among them. They will all simply follow the instructions in the estate plan and things will go as intended. However, this does not always happen, and estate disputes – particularly among...
Who needs access to your advance directive for health care?
An advance directive for health care is one of the most important elements in your estate plan. Even if you don’t have a will in place yet, it’s wise to draw up this advance directive to “speak” for you if you can’t speak for yourself. An advance directive lets...