Blended families are increasingly common, occurring when two people enter into a subsequent marriage after prior marriages end in death or divorce. While these relationships present many opportunities for joy and happiness, they also bring with them unique estate planning challenges, especially when children from previous marriages are involved. These challenges usually happen…
As many unmarried couples have found out, unfortunately, partners have no legal standing to manage affairs or inherit property if their loved one becomes sick or passes away. Without specific legal documents, unmarried partners cannot make financial or medical decisions on each other’s behalf, and without a Last Will and Testament, the laws of succession direct property held by a deceased individual to pass to their closest surviving relatives, typically parents, siblings, or children.
Whether you have a lost a spouse or partner through divorce or death, being thrust into singlehood can be an emotionally and financially jarring experience. To get yourself back on firm footing, at least financially, follow these five steps: Finalize financial plans. In the case of a divorce, you must …
Windsor Ruling Expands Estate Planning Prospects for Married Same-Sex Couples In June, the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in United States v. Windsor invalidated the federal Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA). The Windsor ruling has led to a number of recent federal rule changes from the IRS, Social Security Administration and …
