Trusts offer a wide range of estate planning benefits depending on a trust’s structure and its ultimate goals. Of course, one of the primary purposes of estate planning is the preservation and growth of estate assets through the effective use of trusts. However, from the investment management perspective, trusts are…
Crypto assets such as non-fungible tokens (“NFTs”), utility tokens, security tokens, digital wallets, and cryptocurrency funds are digital assets that implement public ledgers over the internet to establish ownership. While these assets can hold significant wealth, it also presents unique Texas estate planning challenges. It is critical to consider these…
In Texas, a revocable living trust, also known as a trust, is a legal entity designed to control one’s assets. Trusts are created when one person, referred to as the trustor, settlor, or grantor transfers a property interest to a trustee to be held for a beneficiary. Trusts creator during…
While retirement and estate planning are distinct areas that contribute to financial stability, there is significant overlap between these considerations. Texas estate planning typically involves creating a system and plan for transferring the creator’s estate. In comparison, retirement planning refers to establishing retirement income and taking steps to accomplish these…
Medicaid is a state and federal program that provides medical coverage and payment to eligible persons. The Texas Medicaid program strives to improve the health of Texas who might otherwise go without medical care and treatment. To qualify for Texas Medicaid, the individual must be a Texas resident, a U.S.…
For many, estate planning can be an uncomfortable topic requiring individuals to consider their mortality. While facing the fleeting nature of life can be difficult, estate planning can bring financial and emotional peace to an otherwise daunting topic. Consulting with experienced Texas trusts and estate lawyers can streamline this process…
Many worry that their estate will be left with significant taxes when they pass. Fortunately, Texas is one of 38 states that do not have an estate tax. However, residents may still be subject to federal estate tax laws. Other states’ inheritance laws may apply to a Texas resident. Thus,…
Savings bonds are low-risk, long-term investments that have the unique ability to serve as a gift to a loved one. In essence, these bonds are loans to the U.S. government. Purchasers often acquire these bonds as part of an investment, future gift, or retirement plan. However, there are many caveats…
With more people than ever with personal information online, Texans may have questions about how to incorporate this information into their estate plan. Can another person take over their accounts after they pass away? Even if someone provides their account information to another, can they legally access the accounts? As…
There are two primary types of wills under Texas law: 1) holographic and 2) non-holographic wills. Non-holographic wills are typed, witnesses, and attested wills. In contrast, holographic wills refer to entirely handwritten wills. In Texas, holographic wills are only enforceable when the entire document is written in the testator’s handwriting.…