Jimmy Buffett died on September 1, 2023, at age 76 after a diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma (skin cancer) four years earlier. He was a renowned singer-songwriter, film producer, businessman, novelist, and philanthropist. Buffett released his first album, Down to Earth, in 1970. By 2023, his net worth was officially $1 billion,[1] including a $180 million stake in […]
Beneficiaries
Difference Between Transfer on Death and Payable on Death Designation from Austin Estate Planning Attorney Liz Nielsen
When tackling estate planning, adding a payable-on-death (POD) or transfer-on-death (TOD) designation to an account allows the assets (money and property) in that account to be passed to a named beneficiary when the original account holder dies. Like trusts, POD and TOD accounts bypass probate. They are also fast, easy, and usually free to set […]
Reasons Why You Want to Avoid Intestacy from Austin Estate Planning Attorney Liz Nielsen
About two out of three Americans will die without a will. This is known as dying intestate. While the reasons for not having a will vary, the end result is the same for everyone: they do not get to choose who receives their property when they die. Instead, their money and property are distributed according to […]
Planning a Barbecue is Like Planning Your Estate from Austin Estate Planning Attorney Liz Nielsen
For many, Memorial Day weekend signals the beginning of summer and enjoying warm-weather activities, including a backyard barbecue with friends and family. Although a cookout may be an informal affair, planning is crucial to its success. This is true for estate planning, too. Just as preparations are necessary for a successful cookout, a little planning […]