Jan 29, 2025 by Ledwidge & Associates
When planning your estate, one tool you might consider is an irrevocable trust. Understanding how irrevocable trusts work and their benefits can help you decide if they are the right choice for your estate plan in New York. This blog provides a comprehensive overview to help you make an informed decision. What Is an Irrevocable Trust? An irrevocable trust is a type of legal agreement where the person establishing the ... [Read More]
Jan 22, 2025 by Ledwidge & Associates
Estate planning is essential for everyone, but it can be particularly complex for non-U.S. citizens residing in New York. Understanding the unique legal and tax considerations is crucial for effective estate planning. This blog outlines key aspects non-U.S. citizens should consider when creating an estate plan in New York. Understanding Residency and Domicile For estate planning purposes, it's important to distinguish between residency and domicile. Residency refers to where you ... [Read More]
Jan 15, 2025 by Ledwidge & Associates
Divorce significantly alters many aspects of your life, including your estate plan. In New York, it's crucial to understand how divorce affects your estate planning documents to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and your interests are protected. This blog explores key considerations and steps to take when updating your estate plan post-divorce. Automatic Revocation of Beneficiary Designations Beneficiary Designations: In New York, divorce automatically revokes any ... [Read More]
Jan 8, 2025 by Ledwidge & Associates
A family trust is a powerful estate planning tool that offers various benefits for individuals seeking to protect and manage their assets for the benefit of their loved ones. In New York, setting up a family trust can provide numerous advantages, from asset protection to efficient wealth transfer. This blog examines the practical benefits of establishing a family trust in New York, highlighting how it can contribute to your overall ... [Read More]
Jan 1, 2025 by Ledwidge & Associates
Estate taxes can significantly impact the wealth you leave behind for your loved ones in New York. Understanding how to minimize these taxes through effective estate planning strategies is crucial for preserving assets and ensuring your beneficiaries receive the maximum benefit. This blog explores practical tips and considerations to help you minimize estate taxes in New York, allowing you to protect your legacy and secure your family's financial future. Understanding ... [Read More]
Dec 25, 2024 by Ledwidge & Associates
Planning for long-term care is a crucial aspect of estate planning in New York, ensuring that you and your loved ones are prepared for potential healthcare needs as you age. Understanding the various options available, including Medicaid and other strategies, can help you navigate this complex landscape effectively. This blog explores the essentials of planning for long-term care in New York, highlighting Medicaid eligibility, alternative options, and proactive steps to ... [Read More]
Dec 18, 2024 by Ledwidge & Associates
In estate planning, ensuring your healthcare preferences are honored during times of incapacity is as crucial as managing your financial affairs. A healthcare proxy, also known as a healthcare power of attorney, plays a pivotal role in New York's estate planning framework by appointing a trusted individual to make medical decisions on your behalf when you are unable to do so. This blog explores the significance of a healthcare proxy, ... [Read More]
Dec 11, 2024 by Ledwidge & Associates
As our loved ones age, there may come a time when they require assistance with decision-making and managing their affairs. Establishing guardianship for elderly parents in New York involves important legal considerations to ensure their well-being and protect their interests. This blog explores the process of guardianship, legal responsibilities, and steps to take when considering this important decision for aging family members. Understanding Guardianship in New York Guardianship is a ... [Read More]
Dec 4, 2024 by Ledwidge & Associates
A pour-over will is a valuable estate planning tool that serves to complement other planning instruments, such as trusts, ensuring comprehensive management and distribution of assets according to your wishes. Understanding how a pour-over will works in New York can provide clarity on its benefits and its role within your estate plan. This blog delves into the advantages of a pour-over will, offering insights to help you make informed decisions ... [Read More]
Nov 27, 2024 by Ledwidge & Associates
Managing a family business in New York involves not only building a successful enterprise but also planning for its continuity and succession across generations. Effective estate planning is essential to ensure the smooth transition of ownership and management while preserving the legacy and value of your business. This blog explores key estate planning strategies tailored for New York entrepreneurs who own and manage family businesses, offering practical tips to safeguard ... [Read More]