Posts Categorized: Wills

Do Your Homework to Ensure Your Kids Are Properly Cared for No Matter What Happens

As a parent, one of the most important steps you can take to protect your children is legally naming guardians in case something happens to you. Without a clear plan in place, your kids could face unnecessary court battles or even temporary placement with strangers. Our Kids Protection Plan® ensures your children are always cared for by the people you trust, with both long-term and temporary guardianship arrangements. Don’t leave your child’s future to chance – learn how to put the right protections in place today. READ MORE

Trusts & Homeowner’s Insurance: What You Need to Know So You Don’t Get a Claim Denied In the Future

Transferring your home into a trust is a smart move to protect your family and avoid probate, but many homeowners overlook a crucial step – updating their homeowner’s insurance. If your policy doesn’t reflect the trust as the legal owner, your claim could be denied when disaster strikes. In this blog, we’ll explore why aligning your insurance with your trust is essential, common mistakes to avoid, and how a well-structured Life & Legacy Plan ensures your home and loved ones are fully protected. READ MORE

How Legal Planning Helps Build a Strong Blended Family

Blended families bring love and new beginnings, but they also come with unique challenges when it comes to life and legacy planning. Without a clear plan in place, conflicts can arise between spouses and children from previous relationships, leading to unintended financial and emotional stress. A well-structured life and legacy plan ensures that your loved ones are cared for according to your wishes, preventing disputes and fostering harmony. Learn how thoughtful planning can strengthen your blended family and provide peace of mind for everyone involved. READ MORE

National Unclaimed Property Day: Why Estate Planning is More Than Just Documents

Every year, millions of dollars in unclaimed assets – bank accounts, life insurance policies, retirement funds, and more – end up in state custody simply because they were forgotten or not properly accounted for. National Unclaimed Property Day serves as a crucial reminder that estate planning is more than just having a will or trust – it’s about creating a clear, organized plan to ensure your assets reach your loved ones. At Cheever Law, APC, we help you build a comprehensive estate plan that includes an up-to-date asset inventory, regular reviews, and strategies to protect your legacy. Don’t let your hard-earned assets go unclaimed – take action today. READ MORE

3 Ways to Benefit by Incorporating Charitable Giving Into Your Estate Plan

Incorporating charitable giving into your estate plan not only supports the causes you care about but also provides significant financial benefits. Whether you leave a donation in your will or trust, name a charity as a beneficiary of your retirement account, or establish a charitable remainder trust, you can reduce estate taxes, maximize tax savings, and even create a lifetime income stream for yourself or your family. At Cheever Law, APC, we can help you develop a strategic plan that aligns with your values while benefiting your estate. Read our latest blog to learn how charitable giving can be a powerful part of your legacy. READ MORE

From Preparation to Recovery: When Disaster Strikes

Disasters can happen anytime, and being prepared can make all the difference for you and your loved ones. From packing a go-bag to ensuring your estate plan is up to date, having a solid plan in place allows you to act quickly, stay safe, and recover more easily. In this blog, I’ll walk you through essential steps for disaster preparedness, emergency response, and recovery, while also highlighting how Life & Legacy Planning can provide long-term security and peace of mind. Don’t wait for an emergency—take action now to protect what matters most! READ MORE

Will Your Estate Plan Actually Work When Your Family Needs It?

Most people think estate planning is a one-time task – create the documents, file them away, and forget about them. But an outdated or incomplete plan can leave your family facing court battles, unnecessary expenses, and confusion when they need guidance the most. Estate planning isn’t just about having a will or trust – it’s about keeping those plans updated as your life, assets, and laws change. Don’t leave your loved ones with a plan that doesn’t work. Learn how to ensure your estate plan is effective when it matters most. READ MORE

4 Estate Planning Myths That Put Your Loved Ones at Risk

Many people believe estate planning is only for the wealthy, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Estate planning is about protecting your loved ones, ensuring your wishes are honored, and avoiding unnecessary legal and financial complications. Whether it’s naming guardians for your children, minimizing taxes, or preventing disputes, having a solid plan in place brings peace of mind and security. Don’t let common myths like “I don’t have enough assets” or “It’s too expensive” stop you from taking action. A well-prepared estate plan is one of the most thoughtful gifts you can give your family. READ MORE

The Lesson Plan for Your Estate

Estate planning is like creating a lesson plan for your future – organizing what happens to your money, property, and care when you can’t make those decisions yourself. From essential documents like a revocable living trust and will to powers of attorney and healthcare directives, estate planning ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. Start preparing today to secure your future and guide your family with clarity and confidence. READ MORE

Five Essential Steps to Protect Your Loved Ones in 2025

As we enter 2025, now is the perfect time to take action to protect your loved ones and secure your legacy. From organizing your finances and minimizing taxes to recording a meaningful Life & Legacy Interview and planning your final farewell, these steps ensure your family is cared for and spared unnecessary stress. Through a comprehensive Life & Legacy Plan, you can create peace of mind for yourself and lasting clarity for your loved ones. Schedule a Life and Legacy Planning Session today to get started! READ MORE

UPDATE: Appeals Court Reinstates – Then Suspends – Corporate Transparency Act Filing Requirement

Recent updates to the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) have created some uncertainty for business owners, as filing deadlines have shifted multiple times. While the requirement to disclose personal information is currently optional, it’s important to stay informed as the situation evolves. We’re here to help you navigate these changes and ensure your estate plan and business protections are up to date. Schedule a Life and Legacy Planning Session with us today to get expert guidance on safeguarding your business and family, regardless of what happens with the CTA. READ MORE

Estate Planning Meets FAFSA: Smart Strategies for Asset Ownership

Understanding how FAFSA evaluates assets can significantly impact your child’s financial aid eligibility. By strategically managing asset ownership—like prioritizing 529 plans, leveraging retirement accounts, and timing financial moves—you can maximize aid and preserve your family’s wealth. Schedule a Life and Legacy Planning Session today to create a plan that balances education funding with long-term financial security! READ MORE

Actions to Take Before 2024 Ends to Qualify for Tax Credits

As the year comes to a close, now is the time to take advantage of tax credits that can save you money and set you up for success in 2024. From the Earned Income Tax Credit to residential energy improvements, childcare, and retirement savings, there are many opportunities to reduce your tax bill or increase your refund. Learn how to maximize your savings and plan for your financial future by scheduling a Life and Legacy Planning Session today! READ MORE

Special Report: Act Before 12/31 If You Have Crypto Assets!

Act now to protect your cryptocurrency! New IRS rules starting in 2025 require wallet-by-wallet cost basis tracking, which could impact your tax strategy. Use the safe harbor deadline of December 31, 2024, to simplify compliance and secure your digital legacy. Schedule a Life and Legacy Planning Session today to ensure your crypto assets are protected for the future! READ MORE

Year-End Options for Giving to Charity

The desire to make a difference doesn’t end when we’re gone. For many people, incorporating charitable giving into their estate plan provides a way to support causes they care about while creating a lasting legacy. Whether you want to establish a scholarship fund, support medical research, or help your local community, thoughtful charitable planning can maximize your impact while potentially providing tax benefits for your heirs. Since this time of year invokes a desire to give to those less fortunate, and take advantage of tax benefits, let’s explore how you can do that by including charitable giving in your Life & Legacy Plan.  READ MORE