Illinois estate planning attorneys suggest updating your estate plan when a spouse moves into an Illinois nursing home as this is a change in life circumstances. Wills and other legal end-of-life documents should evolve as people’s lives and needs change. Just as people often make updates following marriage, the birth of a child, or a divorce, so too should they consider making modifications when they move a spouse into a long-term care facility. Protecting Assets When a Spouse Needs … [Read more...]
Archives for 2019
Has Your Spouse Moved to a Nursing Home? It May Be Time to Update Your Estate Plan
Posted on August 9, 2019 //
Adding Your Spouse to the Deed of Your Home
Posted on July 23, 2019 //
Adding a spouse to the deed of a home is typically a fairly simple process, but the decision to do so should be carefully evaluated. Since such a move could have a substantial impact on a couple's financial future, homeowners should consider the advantages and risks before adding their spouses to the deed of their homes. How Do Homeowners Add Spouses to Property Deeds? One of the most common ways property owners add spouses to real estate titles is by using quitclaim deeds. Once completed … [Read more...]
A Guide to Debt After Death
Posted on July 9, 2019 //
A green eraser is going to erase a debt word When people in Illinois die with debt, the money owed typically has to be repaid by the estate. The way a deceased person's debt is handled, however, depends on a variety of factors including whether there was a joint borrower or co-signer, the debts are secured, and assets exist to pay off amounts owed. A 2017 study by Credit.com found that almost three-quarters of Americans have outstanding debts after death. What if the Estate Cannot … [Read more...]
3 Alternatives to a Reverse Mortgage
Posted on June 20, 2019 //
Reverse mortgages are not the only option for retirees looking to enhance their cash flow. Alternatives, like refinancing the existing mortgage, taking out a home-equity loan, or selling the property might help some people reach their goals. Evaluating financial circumstances and retirement objectives can help homeowners determine which route is the best fit. Refinancing For homeowners that are struggling with their monthly payments, refinancing is a potential option. Refinancing may allow … [Read more...]
What Happens to Your Investment Assets When You Die?
Posted on June 10, 2019 //
The fate of retirement funds after death depends on the type of accounts held, whether designated beneficiaries exist, and the way accounts are set up. By making sure the right types of accounts are correctly set up and proper beneficiary designations are in place, people can ensure that their retirement money is available for surviving family members when they die. Annuities Annuities are retirement benefits in which individuals pay a set amount over time (monthly, annually quarterly, … [Read more...]
5 Ways to Get Out of a Reverse Mortgage
Posted on May 24, 2019 //
There are various options available to homeowners who decide to get out of their reverse mortgages. Aside from dying or selling the home, borrowers can exercise their right of recission, repay the loan balance, refinance with a conventional mortgage, tap into their savings, or choose another reverse mortgage. When deciding which option to choose, the length of time since the money was borrowed and the consumer's overall financial situation play an important role. Indicators that a Reverse … [Read more...]
How Are Probate Claims Paid in Illinois?
Posted on May 10, 2019 //
Ordinarily, when someone dies in Illinois, creditors are given the opportunity to file claims against that person's estate, valid claims are paid, and remaining assets are distributed in accordance with the will or state law. To receive payment, creditors must file claims within a specified period and follow the correct procedures for filing. Creditors have two years from the date of the decedent’s death to file a claim against an estate. The requirements for filing claims is relatively lax … [Read more...]
Entering Into a Contractual Business Relationship: Covering Your Bases
Posted on April 22, 2019 //
When entering into a contractual business relationship, careful consideration, clear communication, and planning ahead can prevent legal disputes down the road. Successful contracts avoid complicated legalese, provide specific terms, and describe the method and manner of payment expected. The circumstances under which the contract can be terminated should also be addressed. Elements of a Legally-Binding Contract Contracts can be verbal or written. It is advisable for business contracts to … [Read more...]
Understanding the Difference Between a Durable and a Springing Power of Attorney
Posted on April 8, 2019 //
A significant division exists between springing and durable power of attorney and it is important to understand how these differences may impact a person's financial and medical decisions in the future. A durable power of attorney takes effect the moment that it is signed. This is useful in ensuring that authority is clearly vested. Conversely, a springing power of attorney takes effect when the grantor is incapacitated. Springing powers of attorney reserve more authority for the grantor but at … [Read more...]
Turning Your Side Hustle Into a Real Business Is Easier Than You Think
Posted on March 22, 2019 //
It is feasible to turn a side hustle into a viable business with the right combination of planning, execution, scaling, and timing. The side hustle is a catch-all term for gigs done on the side to generate extra income in addition to regular employment or work. According to the Academy of Management, small businesses which grow from side hustles that are launched while the founder is still working a “day job” are one-third less likely to fail than their counterparts who devote 100 percent of … [Read more...]
