Jensen Estate Law

December Newsletter

 

Smooth Transitions: Asset Transfers and Joint Tenancy at Death

In the grand theatre of life, death is an inevitable curtain call. When it arrives, it presents a complex interplay of laws and processes that determine how one’s assets are transferred to their rightful heirs or beneficiaries. This article delves into the nuances of asset transfers at death, including the intricacies of joint tenancy, with the aim of shedding light on the principles of estate administration and easing the process of wealth preservation for the bereaved.  

Life Insurance: The Silent Guardian of Your Estate 

Dive into the intricacies of Life Insurance and Estate Planning, as we explore its necessity, proper handling, its implications on estate tax exemptions, the role of Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILITs), Group Term Life Insurance, and the importance of beneficiary designations. An essential read for anyone seeking to understand the broad strokes of life insurance and how it interacts with estate planning for optimal wealth preservation. 

Your Estate’s Future: Probate or Trust Administration?

Estate planning—what might be one of life’s more challenging tasks, serves as a testament to our instinct for order, foresight, and concern for our loved ones’ welfare. Delving into this topic invariably leads to two major options: Probate Process and Trust Administration. These two avenues have their unique characteristics and potential benefits, and understanding the differences can be vital to your long-term wealth preservation and tax planning goals. The critical takeaway is that a will typically leads to probate, while a well-funded trust facilitates trust administration.