If you have a loved one with special needs, you might worry that you will leave them in a precarious situation when you are gone. For instance, if you bequeath your estate through a traditional will, your loved one may not be eligible for government support programs...
Estate Planning
Can careful estate planning help you avoid a guardianship?
Long-term independence is often the main goal of those thinking about their retirement and golden years in Colorado. Aging in place is often part of the plan, as the people feel more comfortable staying in the same home and have a better idea of how to plan their...
Undue influence and free will
Estate plans can be very unique and can be built in different ways. One person may just have a will, for example, while the other person has a much more complex plan that includes a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO), a trust and power of attorney. It all...
3 steps that can help you prepare for aging in place
If you don't prepare ahead of time for the experience of growing older, you may end up dependent on other people financially or on a day-to-day basis. It takes considerable advance planning for an adult who is ready for retirement to arrange to age in place in their...
How does a power of attorney work?
When you are physically or mentally incapacitated, you need someone to handle your affairs and make decisions for you. Many assume that their family members will automatically take over this role. However, without proper legal authorization, it may not be so...
What estate plan updates are important when you remarry?
Whether your first marriage ended with the untimely death of your spouse or a divorce, you may not have expected to fall in love again. Now that you have met someone that treats you right and makes you happy, you are thrilled at the prospect the spending the rest of...
How gift taxes can affect your Colorado estate plan
Many people preparing for retirement or enjoying their first few years out of the workforce have to make careful financial plans for the future. Concerns about estate taxes or your future eligibility for Medicaid might require that you reduce what property you hold in...
3 reasons you should update your estate plan
You made your estate plan a few years ago. At the time, it covered everything: your beneficiaries were declared; you had a trusted executor of your estate; you may have named a medical power of attorney and a separate financial power of attorney. Everything seemed in...
Is there any property you can’t include in your will?
Creating a will is a responsible step for you to take to ensure your wishes are carried out after you pass away. However, as you create your will, it is important to note that some property types cannot be included. Do you know what property should be left out? Here...
3 medical choices you can address with an advance directive
Advance healthcare directives are valuable documents that many people add to their estate plans. Colorado recommends that those with serious health concerns and anyone over the age of 65 create basic advance directives. Of course, many people who are younger than...
