FAQs About Trusts, Trusts

Can I Create an Asset Protection Trust for Myself in Texas?

Amendments to the Texas Property Code appear to create a back door to create a self-settled asset protection trust in Texas.

FAQs About Probate, Probate

Texas Small Estate Affidavit: Eligibility, Filing Process & Requirements

A Small Estate Affidavit can be a quick and cost-effective way to transfer property to a decedents legal heirs without going through formal probate in Texas when someone…

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 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…

Trusts

The Power of Beneficiary Deemed Owner Trusts for Retirement Assets

If you have a large retirement asset that you intend to pass to your beneficiaries in trust, consider updating your estate plan to include Beneficiary Deemed Owner Trusts…

FAQs About Probate

Is It Always Necessary to Probate a Will in Texas?

It is necessary to probate a Will in Texas when the estate includes assets titled in the decedent’s name. A person who dies typically has two classes of…