Estate Planning, The Texas Transfer on Death Deed

The Texas Transfer on Death Deed

A Texas Transfer on Death Deed is a legal document that allows you to name beneficiaries to inherit your real estate after you pass away, avoiding the need…

Requirements of a Valid Will, Wills

What are the Requirements of a Valid Will in Texas?

Texas attorney Rania Combs discusses the statutory requirements of a valid holographic Will and a valid typewritten Will in Texas.

How Property Distributed When Someone Dies Without A Will

What Happens If You Die Without A Will in Texas?

If you die without a Will in Texas, referred to as dying intestate, your property will pass according to the Texas intestacy laws – a strict legal…

FAQs About Wills, Wills

What are the Requirements of a Valid Will in North Carolina?

North Carolina attorney Rania Combs discusses the statutory requirements of valid Wills in North Carolina.

FAQs About Trusts, Trusts

What is a Crummey Trust?

When I suggest Crummey Trusts to clients, I often get a confused reaction: “Why would I want a crummy trust?” they ask. Despite the misleading name, Crummey…

Estate Planning, FAQs About Estate Planning

Can Minor Orphans in Texas Select Their Own Guardians?

IIn Texas, minor orphans who have reached the “age of discretion”—typically 12 years old or older—have the legal ability to appoint their own guardian. This law provides…

Estate Planning, Questions About Estate Tax

How Much Money Can I Give Without Paying Gift Tax?

Under federal tax law, the person making a gift (the donor) is responsible for any federal gift tax due—not the recipient (donee). The gift’s recipient (the donee) does…

Uncategorized

Back to Nature: Exploring Green Burial Options

Imagine walking through a serene forest with sunlight filtering through the trees. Instead of rows of headstones and manicured lawns found in traditional cemeteries, where concrete vaults and metal…

Estate Planning, Uncategorized

Final Regulations Under SECURE Act: What You Need to Know

The IRS released the final regulations to the SECURE Act on July 18, 2024. Although regulations mostly mirror the 2022 proposed regulations, they include some clarifications and changes.

Estate Planning, Uncategorized

Estate Planning for the Unexpected

I read an article last week that served as a sobering reminder of why it’s crucial to plan for the unexpected.The article was about a Pennsylvania couple…