Estate Planning Basics

Learn the essentials around planning and protecting the future for your family and loved ones.

Getting and using letters testamentary
If you're acting as the executor of an estate, you must first obtain an important document known as letters testamentary. While doing so is not an overly complicated process, there are some points you should know.
February 1, 2023 · 2 min read
Creating a grantor trust
In certain situations, creating a grantor trust can be an invaluable aid for estate planning purposes. Find out how to create a grantor trust and whether such a trust is the best tool for your estate planning needs.
February 1, 2023 · 3 min read
Buying and selling probate property
Probate property sold to settle an estate can be a great opportunity to buy real estate at an attractive price. Find out how and when probate property is sold and how to take advantage of it.
February 1, 2023 · 3 min read
Pros and cons of a qualified personal residence trust
A qualified personal residence trust, or QPRT, can provide estate and gift tax savings, but they also can be complicated to set up and maintain. Learn more about how a QPRT works, and whether it fits your estate plan.
February 1, 2023 · 3 min read
Pros and cons of an asset protection trust
Is an asset protection trust right for you? Find out what situations are best for such a trust and how this legal arrangement can assist in your estate planning goals.
February 1, 2023 · 4 min read
Trust account basics
Trusts often play an important role in the estate planning process. But is one right for your particular situation?
February 1, 2023 · 4 min read
Conservatorship vs. guardianship
Is a conservatorship or a guardianship right for your situation? Find out how the two terms differ and what each entails.
February 1, 2023 · 3 min read
5 reasons to open an estate account
Here are five reasons why it's much better for your executor to administer your estate using an estate account.
February 1, 2023 · 3 min read
Navigating New York's surrogate's court
There are many steps which must be undertaken by executors going through the NY probate process. Get familiar with the process to improve your chances of a successful probate.
February 1, 2023 · 3 min read
The basics of conservatorship
Conservatorship is a legal process in which an adult, or sometimes an organization, is given the legal authority to manage an incapacitated adult's care or finances. Get the details on the situations in which this might be necessary.
February 1, 2023 · 3 min read