It has been said that nothing ever dies on the Internet. While this dictum is typically used as a warning that what we put online may come back to haunt us, it is also true that our online accounts can outlive us, and even live in perpetuity. Having a digital estate plan that makes arrangements […]
Trustee
Investment and Distribution Trustees: Why Would I Need Both? from Austin Estate Planning Attorney Liz Nielsen
When creating a trust, it is common to name yourself as the initial trustee who is responsible for all aspects of administering the trust. However, when considering who will take over when you can no longer act (either because of illness or death), it is sometimes helpful to divide the responsibilities between two or more […]
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 […]
Why Can’t We Have a Joint Trust If We Are Unmarried? from Austin Estate Planning Attorney Liz Nielsen
Joint trusts are beneficial for many married couples, especially if they have a stable relationship, do not have many creditors, and do not live in a state where their estate may be subject to a state death tax. Compared to separate trusts, they are easier to fund, allow the surviving spouse to have complete control […]