Estate Planning

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Do I need to put my children on my checking and / or brokerage accounts?

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Avoid unintended legal and financial risks when adding children to accounts. Learn how TOD designations and powers of attorney may offer safer options.

What is a Transfer on Death Deed?

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A transfer on death deed can simplify real estate transfer after death, but it may not fit every estate plan. Learn the benefits, risks, and next steps.

Do I Need a Trust to Save Taxes?

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In Indiana, most people do not need a trust to save estate taxes. Learn when trusts help—and when they may increase income taxes.

What’s the Difference Between an Elder Law Attorney and an Estate Planning Attorney?

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Learn the difference between an elder law attorney and an estate planning attorney, including how each focuses on asset protection, long-term care planning, Medicaid, and the orderly transfer of assets.

Who Makes Decisions for Me If I Don’t Have a Power of Attorney?

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Plan ahead with a power of attorney to avoid costly guardianship; learn how a POA preserves your control and reduces court involvement.

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Can I Make and Sign My Own Last Will & Testament?

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Anyone could draft a Will, but as my mother used to tell me, just because you can do something does not mean you should.

What Happens If You Die Without a Will?

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In Indiana, if you pass away without a Last Will and Testament, your assets are divided among your heirs in accordance with Indiana Intestacy laws.

Estate Planning: What is “Sound Mind”?

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Sound mind generally refers to a person’s mental capacity to understand their actions, make informed decisions free of undue influence, and the consequences of their decisions.

How to Protect Your Digital Legacy in Indiana: Estate Planning for Online Accounts

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Secure your digital legacy by naming a digital executor, listing your accounts, and including online assets in your will to protect memories and prevent hassles.

Who Pays the Lien? Protecting Your Heirs from Surprises in Estate Planning

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What does the law say about how liens and expenses get paid, and by whom, for specific devises of any real or personal property as well as for real estate transferred by T.O.D. deed at death?