What Happens If I Die Without a Will? Anna Nicole Smith
What happens if I die without a will? Look to these celebrities for what NOT to do. A lot of what happens you die without a Will, and really, without a proper and complete Estate Plan, depends on your assets. In any case, your estate will be left in Probate, a long legal process that sorts out where assets go, how much is owed in taxes, etc. If you have minor children, the will not likely end up where you had hoped they would and will get much less of your assets than they could with a proper Estate Plan. Call our office to set up an appointment with Estate Planning attorney Gary Quackenbush...
Read MoreChristmas in July: Federal Gift Tax
The Federal Gift Tax and You What is the gift tax? Do I owe a gift tax? Do I need to report all gifts to the IRS? There are certain amounts and ways to give gifts tax free to your descendants and friends both during your life and through a properly arranged Estate Plan. What’s important is to learn the rules, set up a clear Estate Plan with Gary (858-549-8600) and make sure your loved ones and finances are all squared away. What is the federal gift tax? The gift tax is a federal tax that applies to all the gifts you make in a lifetime. Lucky for most, unless you live in Connecticut or...
Read MoreWhy do I need a Will?
California Estate Planning Lawyer Gary Quackenbush explains why everyone needs a California Will as part of a complete Estate Plan. You need a will because you are an individual with possessions, and possibly heirs, that are important to you. You need a will because you want to protect them and their best...
Read MoreEstate Planning Explained in 3 Minutes
California Estate Planning Attorney Gary Quackenbush answers the questions “What is an Estate Plan?” and “Do I need an Estate Plan?” in this 3 minute video. Click on the picture to watch...
Read MoreWhat is Probate? San Diego Probate Attorney
What is Probate? To some people, “probate” is just another one of those legal words they’ve heard but don’t understand. For those who’ve been through probate the word is associated with losing a loved one, money trouble, stress, courts, and all too often, rough times. Even so, many still are left asking the, what is probate? As the California Courts official website states: Losing a loved one is a sad and difficult time for family, relatives, and friends. In addition, those left behind must often figure out how to transfer or inherit property from the person who has died. To do...
Read MoreA Pet Trust: Estate Planning for Fido and Fluffy
A Pet Trust: Estate Planning for Fido and Fluffy Gary’s dog Rusty (1998-2011) Sixty-eight percent of US households own a pet. Many pet owners consider their pets as part of their family. If you love Fido and Fluffy like family, read on to see how you can make sure they are taken care of, even if you’re not around. The Pet Trust California is one of 46 states that allow for a Pet Trust as part of an Estate Plan. While many people do mention their furry friends as property in a Trust and even leave money to a caretaker for the continued care of the pet, there is nothing that...
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