Estate planning is often one of those tasks that people tend to put off until later in life, or sometimes, until it’s too late. The idea of contemplating one’s mortality and the intricacies of distributing assets can be daunting, leading… Read More

It is never too early to create an Estate Plan. However, putting it off too long can lead to catastrophe should you pass away without clearly detailing your wishes. Dying or even becoming incapacitated without a Will or Estate Plan denies countless o… Read More

A recently released survey* revealed only one in three (34%) American adults has an estate plan. Of those who do have an estate plan, 20% have not updated their plan in the last five years. 72% of women are without an estate plan compared to 59% of m… Read More

The US Internal Revenue Service has announced that the annual gift tax exclusion is increasing in 2024 due to inflation. The exclusion will be $18,000 per recipient for 2024—the highest exclusion amount ever. The annual amount that one may give to… Read More

While a Last Will and Testament will direct your executor how to distribute your property, your executor will be required to go to probate court to collect and distribute your property, opening up your estate to the public eye and making it easier fo… Read More

Estate planning can be a challenge for Illinois residents. People want to share their assets without burdening their loved ones with heavy estate taxes, or the time and expense of going through the probate process. Establishing a trust may offer bene… Read More

The Two Components Two components included in basic estate plans include a Last Will and Testament and a Trust. These can be used in combination with each other but can also be used separately. Our firm believes that a well-executed estate plan inclu… Read More

Being proactive in life is a good thing — especially if you’ve taken the time to prepare a Will or Trust to reflect how you want personal and financial matters handled after death. Planning for who makes financial and medical decisions for you if… Read More