Supporting a loved one with a disability takes careful planning. You want to protect their comfort and security while keeping essential benefits in place. Two main tools can help achieve that balance: ABLE accounts and special needs trusts. Each allows savings and financial support without affecting government eligibility, but they work in very different ways. … [Read More]
Can You Engage a Professional Trustee?
When you create a trust, you decide who will manage it after you’re gone or if you become incapacitated. That person or institution, the trustee, plays a critical role in protecting your assets and following your wishes. Many people name a family member, but some trusts call for professional management. Understanding when and why to … [Read More]
Estate Planning Insights: Can My Will Address Out-of-State Property?
We have a Westport, Connecticut, estate planning office, and another location in Glastonbury. A lot of people in these areas have significant resources, and many own property outside of the state. This raises the question: Can a will address out-of-state property? Let’s take a look at the question from an overview, because the simple answer … [Read More]
IRS Announces Increased 2026 Estate Tax Exclusion
The IRS adjusts the estate tax exemption each year to account for inflation. With 2025 coming to a close, they have released the 2026 federal estate tax exclusion, and it is good news for high-net-worth individuals. Let’s look at the details. Understanding the Federal Estate Tax Exclusion The federal estate tax exclusion is the amount … [Read More]
Can a Trust Protect Heirs From Wasting Money?
When you are contemplating your legacy, you will naturally consider the proclivities of your heirs. You may have no problem with the idea of leaving a lump sum inheritance to a responsible adult child. At the same time, there are those who can be described as “financially challenged.” With this in mind, a lot of … [Read More]
Estate Planning for Young Families: How Do I Protect My Loved Ones?
If you and your spouse or partner are the parents of minor children, you may have questions about estate planning for young families. This is an important responsibility, and unfortunately, many younger people are unprepared, which creates unnecessary risks. Some people who know they should act do not move forward because the matter seems complicated, … [Read More]
Is a Will Enough, or Do I Need a Living Trust to Avoid Probate?
You may hear conflicting information about estate planning and asset transfers. Some sources tell you that a will is sufficient, and there are others that talk about trusts to avoid probate. What’s the real deal? This is a good question, and we will provide clarity in this post. Simple Will Function A will can be … [Read More]
Is There Any Way to Change an Irrevocable Trust?
An irrevocable trust is often viewed as unchangeable once it’s established. However, there are situations where modifications become necessary due to changing circumstances or mistakes in the original document. Fortunately, there are several ways to adjust an irrevocable trust legally. This blog explores the methods available to change an irrevocable trust, including the roles of … [Read More]
Separating Fact From Fiction: Don’t Buy These Estate Planning Myths
Estate planning is a process that ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you pass away. However, misconceptions about estate planning can lead to costly mistakes. In this blog, we’ll debunk several common estate planning myths to help you make informed decisions. DIY Estate Planning Is Easy and Effective The internet is … [Read More]
Can I Access Income Earned By Assets in a Medicaid Trust?
More than half of seniors will need paid long-term care eventually. Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover the custodial care you would receive in a nursing home, and it doesn’t pay for in-home care. Medicaid is the widely embraced solution because it will extend to long-term care for seniors. To shape a financial profile that will … [Read More]
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