When you place your assets into a trust in Wisconsin, you'll need someone who can manage them on behalf of the beneficiary. This is an especially important decision because you'll want someone who will conscientiously follow your directives after you're gone. A...
Estate planning
When and why you need a will
In general, it is better to have a will than to not have one. If you die without a will or some kind of estate plan in place that determines how your assets will be distributed, such as a trust or beneficiary designations, the state of Wisconsin decides what will...
How long does probate take?
When an individual passes away in Wisconsin, their estate might go into probate. If you're one of their heirs or an individual named in their will, you're probably wondering how long probate will take. Unfortunately, there's no way to give an exact answer. There are...
Estate planning enables massive wealth transfer
Wisconsin has many families with significant assets that will get transferred from one generation to the next. The potential asset transfers in the United States are anticipated to reach up to $68 trillion over the next 25 years and set a national record for total...
Common myths about estate planning
Estate planning can be a large undertaking, particularly for older people who have accumulated a lot of assets. As a result, many people in Wisconsin tell themselves myths and falsehoods about estate planning so they can keep putting it off. But neglecting to plan...
Estate planning is more than just a document
Everyone in Wisconsin should have an estate plan in place. These days, there are plenty of ways to develop an estate plan; it's never been easier to find a will template online and fill it out. There are even low- and no-cost forms for people who want to designate...
Funding your trust with life insurance
There are many considerations that come to mind when planning your estate, not the least of which is how and what to leave behind for loved ones and minor children should you no longer be there. Many people decide to set up a trust as a means of having more control...
Do taxes affect inheritances in Wisconsin?
After your loved one passed away, you may have learned that you would inherit part of their estate. As you wait for your share to disburse, you will likely have concerns about whether you will pay taxes on it. Besides federal estate tax laws, some states impose their...
When is it time to update an estate plan?
Updating an estate plan can be as important as initially setting one up. There are several different times in the estate planner’s life that they should consider updating their estate plan, in addition to routinely updating an estate plan to ensure it comports with...
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,...