Wisconsin Estate Planning Legal Blog
What is the Medicaid ‘look-back’ period?
People in southeast Wisconsin may plan on one day using government benefits such as Medicaid to pay for their care needs in their old age. However, to qualify for Medicaid and other government benefits, you generally need to have a low income and few assets. It may be...
What does an executor need to do to settle an estate?
Grieving for a loved one can be difficult, and it may seem best to handle their affairs as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, estates can be complex puzzles, and it could take plenty of work before you can declare the process finished. It takes an average of 16...
Options for when Social Security Disability claims are denied
Social Security disability benefits are important sources of financial support for many Americans. In Milwaukee, men, women, and children who live with disabling mental and physical disabilities receive Social Security disability benefits to help them stay financially...
Make certain that you arrange for your pets in an estate plan
Estate planning involves deciding whom you want to receive your assets when you die. It also involves naming people to take over certain responsibilities on your behalf. Most parents are keenly aware of the fact that they need to name a guardian for their children,...
Should you buy long-term care insurance?
Some people buy long-term care insurance as soon as they can, while others continue to put off the purchase. The approach you take depends on a variety of factors, including your budget and personal beliefs. Here are some things to think about if you’re on the fence...
What causes estate distribution confusion?
One of your main goals with estate planning is simply to leave clear instructions for your heirs so that there is no confusion on their end about what you wanted or what should be done with your assets. Confusion, after all, often leads to disputes. If your heirs have...
What if a trustee acts in their own self-interest?
If one of your loved ones went through all of the effort of creating a trust, they likely did so because they had very specific intentions for their legacy. A trust allows people more control over the use of the assets they leave behind and can also have the added...
Can I avoid probate if I have a will?
As you review your will, you may worry about the impact that probate could have on it. Because probate is often lengthy and costly, it can diminish an estate’s value. You may wonder if you can find ways for your assets to avoid it. In some – but not all – cases, they...
Why do young parents need an estate plan?
Some people think of estate planning as a task that only older Americans need to complete, but young parents also need to get this done. The estate plan can outline what is going to happen with your children if you and their other parent both pass away. While this...
Don’t forget important parts of your estate plan
When you ask someone if they have written a will or if they've done any estate planning, the will may be all they really consider. They list everything of value that they own, write down who should get which assets and sign off on the document. A simple will is a good...
