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Maintaining independence is fundamental for people living with disabilities. Having mobility options allows people with certain disabilities to go to doctor’s appointments, grocery shop, visits friends, and keep a sense of autonomy.
Purchasing a vehicle can be expensive. However, grants and other resources can help meet diverse needs, including for those who need an accessible vehicle of their own.
Examples of these resources include the following:
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs invites eligible veterans to seek out its automobile allowance benefits. Vets can also apply for its grants for accessible vehicles and adaptive equipment.
Adaptations may include such vehicle adaptations as changes to seats, brakes, steering wheels, and assistive equipment. Note that each state’s VA office may likely have available grants specific to state residents as well.
This program is headed up by the U.S. Department of Transportation. The Transportation for Elderly Persons and Persons with Disabilities Program grants money to states. The states then coordinate transportation services with nonprofits that address the mobility needs of seniors and people with disabilities.
These types of grant-funded services generally do not provide accessible vehicles for individual use. However, they offer transportation services that are often free or discounted.
Such public transit programs are in place in these and other states:
Northwest Valley Connect in Arizona
CrossTownConnect in Massachusetts
Volunteer Care Giving in North Carolina’s Raleigh area
The Rusk County Transit Commission’s volunteer transportation services in Wisconsin
If you receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI), have a disability, and want to work, the PASS program may be of interest to you. Participants receive a monthly stipend that can go toward paying for an accessible vehicle if required to achieve your work goals. Learn more on the Social Security Administration website.
Across each state, grants for mobility vans vary widely. Be sure to consult The Mobility Resource’s list of state disability grants available specifically for wheelchair vans.
Other state programs exist that assist people with disabilities in modifying their vehicles to make traveling with a mobility impairment easier. Unfortunately, these programs are not consistent throughout the country. Some states that provide their residents with grant opportunities for vehicle updates include:
Kentucky – The Spina Bifida Foundation of Kentucky makes funding for adapting vehicles available through an application process.
New York – The Motion Project Foundation offers qualifying residents grants that can be used for vehicle modifications and other adaptive equipment.
Oregon – The Blanche Fischer Foundation gives grants of up to $1,500 to residents with physical disabilities and financial need.
Texas – The Houston Children’s Charity Chariots for Children program awards accessible vehicles to families of children with special needs .
In addition, numerous states have low-interest loan programs that can help individuals pay for modifying or purchasing a vehicle. These include:
Arizona Technology Access Program
Assistive Technology Loan Program at the Connecticut Tech Act Project
Able Up in Iowa
Montana Assistive Technology Loan Program
Access Loan New Mexico Program
Oklahoma Assistive Technology Foundation loans
Certain car manufacturers also offer rebates for approved devices, equipment, and controls that have been installed in a new vehicle.
Learn more about programs available through such companies as Audi, Honda, and Subaru, among many others. (Other car companies are even launching vehicles specially designed for families with certain disabilities, such as autism.)
Grants for individuals may be available through foundations, nonprofits, and other types of organizations. Depending on the size of the program, some participants may receive enough money to cover the entire cost of assistive equipment and vehicle modifications. Smaller programs may be focused on supporting families with demonstrated financial need.
The following are examples of organizations that provide grants to individuals and families with certain disabilities:
Alyssa V Phillips Foundation. This foundation provides people with cerebral palsy financial aid that can support adaptations to qualifying vehicles.
Chive Charities. This nonprofit helps veterans, first responders, and others with rare medical conditions through grants.
Special Kids Fund. This fund invites families with special needs children to apply for adapted wheelchair vans that are secured through donations.
Muscular Dystrophy Family Foundation. This foundation offers applicants with certain diseases financial assistance for such transportation adaptations as van conversions, transfer seats, and vehicle lifts
Help HOPE Live. Through this nonprofit fundraising website, families with special needs can coordinate crowdfunding campaigns to support their needs
Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. This national foundation funds the Brighter Tomorrow Grant. This grant awards up to $1,000 for goods, services, or equipment that will improve the lives of individuals with MS. Its local chapters also often have grants specific to each state.
Bryon Riesch Paralysis Foundation. This foundation awards grants to people with spinal cord injuries and disorders for specific equipment or modifications.
National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association. This resource offers robust information on accessible driving solutions, funding sources, advice when purchasing accessible vehicles online, and more.
Note that grant application criteria and deadlines will vary from one organization to another. Finding and applying for grants for those who need a wheelchair van or adaptive vehicle modifications can take time. Contact our law firm today for help.
This article is a service of Sharek Law Office, LLC. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love. That's why we offer a Life and Legacy Planning Session, during which you will get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before, and make all the best choices for the people you love. You can begin by calling our office today to schedule a Life and Legacy Planning Session and mention this article to find out how to get this $750 session at no charge. Please note this is educational content only and is not intended to act as legal advice.
Have you ever heard horror stories about families fighting over Grandma's jewelry or getting stuck in a never-ending legal battle after someone passes away? Or about how long it can take to sell a house tied up in the court process? What about family members being denied their inheritance completely? Unfortunately, these situations happen every day. Not even the rich and famous are immune! A simple Google search will pull up dozens of celebrity stories about all the conflict that ensues after they die.But most people dont realize these things are avoidable - if you understand the process. So, if youve thought about creating a will or trust to avoid these outcomes, lets ensure youre fully aware of whats at stake first. Well use a food analogy throughout this article, so our apologies if we make you hungry.Lasagna as an Example of the Difference Between a Will or Trust and an Estate PlanLets start by getting really clear on what were talking about. Youve probably heard the term estate planning numerous times, but do you really know what it is? Contrary to what you may have heard or read about, estate planning and the documents involved - such as a will or trust - are not quite the same thing. Think of your favorite recipe. Well use lasagna as an example. A lasagna recipe includes a few different components: the ingredients needed to make the dish, how much of each ingredient you need, and the steps you have to take to transform the ingredients into a dish. Without the steps, the ingredients are just ingredientsthey dont create anything. Estate planning is similar. Your estate plan is the recipe, and the documents are the ingredients. A will or trust may be the pasta or the sauce, but they are not the lasagna. Sure, theyre necessary components of the lasagna, but without the other ingredients and steps, theyre just pasta and sauce. Same with estate planning. If you just create a will or trust, you have documents that are just documents. They dont do anything by themselves.That most people think the documents ARE the estate plan is a common misconception based on a lack of knowledge. Too many people are focused on the documents, even many lawyers, and so think all they need to do is create those documents, sign them, and call it a day. Even so-called financial experts will tell you this. And theres a whole new tech industry based on this premise, with do-it-yourself programs like LegalZoom. AI has even joined the fold.Every single one of these people and companies is talking about the documents, or the ingredients. They are not telling you about the recipe. They are not showing you how to make the lasagna, but rather, theyre telling you about some (not even all) of the ingredients you need. What results are the big messes mentioned above: families in court and conflict, fights over sentimental items, long wait times to sell a house or distribute any of the assets, and even big, unnecessary tax bills. To truly protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are carried out the way you want, as easily as possible for the people you love, you need a comprehensive estate plan, not just the documents. The plan lays out not only the ingredients you need, but also in what amounts, and what actions must be taken to make the lasagna.If you havent created a comprehensive plan of your own, or your current plan fails for any reason, know that theres a plan already made for you. Its a plan laid out in your States law, and it may be very different from what you want. Your States Recipe for Lasagna May Be GrossTo illustrate the difference between the States plan for you and one you can create for yourself, lets get back to our lasagna example.Lets say the States recipe for lasagna includes spicy sausage, but you cant tolerate spicy foods. The states plan may contain meat, but youre a vegetarian. Or, it could be that the States recipe includes mushrooms, but your child is allergic to mushrooms. Some ingredients may be missing altogether, and the recipe will probably tell you that you cant even cook the lasagna for months, or even years (goodness, your family will be hungry!). Whatever the situation, its possible that the States plan includes some component that you dont like, or even one that could be disastrous to your family. In reality, your states plan says how your assets will be distributed, who will get them and in what amounts. It requires a court process, which can be lengthy and expensive, and sometimes assets are frozen until the court process is over. Its also set up for conflict, as your family members - even if youre estranged - are required to get notice of the court proceeding, what assets you have, and are invited to make a claim for your assets. You may not like any of this.If not, heres the good news. The law also says you can create your own plan and decide on your own who you want to inherit your assets and how. If you create your own plan, you get to decide to give money to charitable causes that matter to you, which the States plan does not allow for. And if you create your own plan, you can also decide whether you want your loved ones to go through the court process. Yes, the court process can be optional. What Recipe Do You Want to Use?By creating your estate plan, you get to choose your lasagna recipe. You get to choose whether you want meat or veggie, mild or spicy sausage. You get to exclude ingredients your family members may be allergic to. You even get to decide if you want to share your lasagna with someone else. And you get to decide when to cook the lasagna, whether you want it to be eaten tonight or assembled, frozen and saved for another day. Its entirely possible that you dont think the States recipe is gross and you wouldnt change a thing. But you wont know that until you know the details of the States plan and how those details pertain to you, your assets, and your family. Or it could be that you think the States recipe is completely gross and you want to pick one that you and your family like. Either way, know what you want to create and be clear on how to do it, and do it correctly. Luckily, we can help. How We Help You Get it RightWeve seen too many families suffer negative, yet unnecessary, consequences after a loved one dies. And if you havent experienced it yourself, chances are you probably will. But with the proper education, beginning with correcting the misconception that estate planning and the documents involved are one and the same, we believe we can break the cycle of strife. As an Estate Planning Law Firm, we start with education so you are clear on what the States plan is for you, and what you can do to create your own plan that aligns with your values, your goals, your family, and most importantly, that it works when you need it to. We call it Life & Legacy Planning, and once youve created your Life & Legacy Plan, you can rest easy knowing your wishes will be honored, your loved ones cared for, and your property protected. Book a call with us today to learn more.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law at 412-347-1731 or click here to schedule a complimentary 15-Minute call.
Losing a loved one is always challenging, and handling their affairs can add to the emotional toll. If the deceased was a Pittsburgh Steelers season ticket holder, you might need to transfer their seat license. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you understand what needs to be done and how to do it smoothly.A Pittsburgh Steelers Seat License, also known as a Personal Seat License (PSL), gives the holder the right to purchase season tickets for specific seats at Acurisure Stadium (Heinz Field). This license can be transferred to another person, including after the death of the original holder.Step-by-Step Guide to Transferring a Seat LicenseStep 1: Locate the Necessary DocumentsBefore you begin the transfer process, gather the following documents:Death Certificate: An official copy of the death certificate of the deceased.Proof of Relationship: Documentation proving your relationship to the deceased, such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, or will.PSL Certificate: The original PSL certificate, if available.Legal Authorization: If you are the executor or administrator of the estate, obtain the necessary legal documents, such as Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration.Step 2: Contact the Pittsburgh Steelers Ticket OfficeReach out to the Pittsburgh Steelers Ticket Office to inform them of the death and your intention to transfer the seat license. The contact details are:Phone: 412-323-1200Email: ticket.office@steelers.comAddress: Pittsburgh Steelers Ticket Office, Heinz Field, 100 Art Rooney Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15212The ticket office will provide you with the necessary forms and instructions for the transfer process.Step 3: Complete the Transfer FormsThe Steelers Ticket Office will provide specific transfer forms that need to be completed. These forms typically include:Transfer Request Form: This form requires details about the deceased, the current seat license holder, and the person to whom the license is being transferred.Affidavit of Survivorship: If the transfer is to a surviving spouse or close relative, an affidavit may be required to confirm the relationship.Estate Documentation: If you are the executor or administrator, you may need to provide a copy of the will, Letters Testamentary, or Letters of Administration.Step 4: Submit the DocumentsSubmit the completed forms along with the necessary documents to the Steelers Ticket Office. This can usually be done via mail, email, or in person. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.Step 5: Pay Any Applicable FeesThere may be fees associated with the transfer of a seat license. The Steelers Ticket Office will inform you of any charges that need to be paid. These fees can typically be paid by check, credit card, or money order.Step 6: Confirm the TransferOnce the forms and documents have been submitted and processed, the Steelers Ticket Office will confirm the transfer. They will provide you with a new PSL certificate in the name of the new license holder. This process can take several weeks, so be patient.Special ConsiderationsLegal and Financial ImplicationsEstate Planning: Its a good idea to include PSLs in estate planning. Clearly stating in the will who should inherit the seat licenses can simplify the transfer process.Tax Implications: Transferring a seat license may have tax implications. Consult with a tax advisor to understand any potential liabilities.Disputes: In case of disputes among heirs, it may be necessary to seek legal advice to resolve the issues amicably and according to the deceaseds wishes.Keeping the Seat License ActiveWhile the transfer process is underway, its important to keep the seat license active. Ensure that any outstanding payments or renewal fees are paid promptly to avoid losing the license.Selling the Seat LicenseIf the heirs decide not to keep the seat license, they may choose to sell it. The Pittsburgh Steelers provide a marketplace for buying and selling PSLs. Contact the ticket office for more information on how to list the seat license for sale.Tips for a Smooth TransferStay Organized: Keep all documents and forms organized and easily accessible. This will help streamline the transfer process.Communicate Clearly: Maintain clear communication with the Steelers Ticket Office and any involved parties. Promptly provide any additional information or documentation requested.Seek Professional Advice: If you are unsure about any part of the process, seek advice from legal or financial professionals who specialize in estate planning and administration. Transferring a Pittsburgh Steelers seat license after someones death involves several steps, but it can be managed smoothly with the right information and preparation. By following this guide, you can ensure that the transfer process is handled correctly, honoring your loved ones legacy and preserving their cherished seats at Heinz Field.Understanding the requirements, staying organized, and seeking professional advice when necessary, can make the process much easier. Whether you choose to keep the seat license within the family or sell it, knowing how to navigate the transfer process will help you make informed decisions and carry out your loved ones wishes effectively.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law at 412-294-9498 or click here to schedule a complimentary 15-Minute call.
Timeshares can be a source of enjoyable vacations for many families. However, they can become a complicated burden after the owner passes away, particularly in Pennsylvania. This blog post will explain why timeshares are problematic after someone dies, the legal and financial issues involved, and provide guidance on how to navigate these challenges.What is a Timeshare?A timeshare is a property with a divided form of ownership or use rights. These properties are typically resort condominium units, where multiple parties hold rights to use the property, and each owner is allotted a specific period of time in which they may use the property. Timeshares can be deeded, meaning the owner holds actual ownership of the property for the designated time, or right-to-use, which means the owner has the right to use the property for a specific time each year for a set number of years.Why Timeshares Can Be ProblematicOngoing Financial Obligations: Timeshares come with annual maintenance fees, property taxes, and special assessments. These obligations do not disappear upon the owners death. The estate or heirs may be responsible for these fees, which can be a financial burden.Complicated Ownership Transfers: Transferring ownership of a timeshare is not as straightforward as transferring other types of property. Timeshares often come with specific rules and regulations set by the resort or timeshare company, which can complicate the transfer process.Diminished Value and Marketability: Timeshares generally do not appreciate in value like traditional real estate. In fact, they often depreciate, making them difficult to sell. Heirs may find it challenging to find a buyer willing to take on the financial obligations associated with the timeshare.Legal Complexity: The process of transferring a timeshare after death involves probate in multiple states, which can be a lengthy and complicated legal procedure. Additionally, if the timeshare is located in another state or country, different laws and regulations may apply, further complicating the process.Steps to Address Timeshare Issues After DeathReview the Timeshare Agreement: The first step is to thoroughly review the timeshare agreement and any related documents. This will help you understand the specific terms and conditions, including the process for transferring ownership and any associated costs.Consult with an Attorney: Given the complexity of timeshare ownership and the probate process, its advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in estate planning and probate law. They can provide guidance on how to handle the timeshare and ensure all legal requirements are met.Notify the Timeshare Company: Contact the timeshare company to inform them of the owners death. They will provide information on the necessary steps to transfer ownership or terminate the agreement.Assess the Financial Impact: Evaluate the financial impact of keeping or selling the timeshare. Consider the annual fees, potential resale value, and any penalties for terminating the agreement. This will help you make an informed decision about whether to keep or dispose of the timeshare.Explore Transfer Options: If you decide to keep the timeshare, work with the timeshare company to transfer ownership to the designated heir. If you wish to sell or terminate the timeshare, explore options such as selling through a reputable resale company, transferring it to another party, or negotiating a termination with the timeshare company.Alternatives to Keeping the TimeshareSelling the Timeshare: Selling a timeshare can be challenging, but its possible. List the timeshare with a reputable resale company or timeshare broker. Be prepared to sell at a loss, as the resale value of timeshares is typically lower than the original purchase price.Renting the Timeshare: If selling is not an immediate option, consider renting out the timeshare to cover the annual fees and maintenance costs. This can provide a temporary solution while you explore other options.Negotiating a Termination: Some timeshare companies offer options for terminating the agreement. This may involve paying a fee, but it can relieve the heirs of future financial obligations. Negotiate with the timeshare company to see if this is an option.Charitable Donation: In some cases, it may be possible to donate the timeshare to a charity. This can provide a tax deduction and eliminate the financial burden. However, not all charities accept timeshares, so research potential organizations thoroughly.Tips for Preventing Timeshare IssuesInclude Timeshares in Estate Planning: Proactively include timeshares in your estate planning. Specify who will inherit the timeshare and provide instructions on how to manage it. This can help prevent confusion and legal complications after your death. By having a revocable living trust you can avoid probate in multiple states to deal with timeshares.Discuss with Heirs: Have open discussions with your heirs about the timeshare. Ensure they understand the financial obligations and determine if they are willing and able to take on these responsibilities.Consider Exit Options: If you anticipate that your heirs may not want to inherit the timeshare, explore exit options while you are still alive. This can include selling, donating, or negotiating a termination with the timeshare company. Timeshares can be a source of enjoyment during ones lifetime but can become a burden for heirs after the owners death. Understanding the potential problems and taking proactive steps to address them can help ease the transition and reduce stress for your loved ones. By including timeshares in your estate planning and consulting with legal and financial professionals, you can ensure that your heirs are well-prepared to handle this aspect of your estate.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law at 412-294-9498 or click here to schedule a complimentary 15-Minute call.
Pennsylvania Probate: What You Need to Know After the Passing of a Loved OneIf you are here to learn about Pennsylvania probate laws after the passing of a loved one, we first want to extend our sincere condolences. We understand that this is a difficult time, and we hope the information on this page provides clarity and helps minimize the legal and administrative challenges you may otherwise face.What Is Probate in Pennsylvania?Probate in Pennsylvania is a court-supervised legal process that ensures the transfer of assets from a deceased individual to their rightful heirs or beneficiaries. This process is essential for: Proving the validity of a will Appointing an executor (if there is a will) or an administrator (if there is no will) Inventorying and appraising estate property Paying outstanding debts, estate taxes, and creditors Distributing assets as directed by the willor by Pennsylvania intestacy laws if no will existsIn Pennsylvania, if a deceased person owned real estate or assets solely in their name, their estate must go through probate before assets can be legally distributed.The Downsides of Pennsylvania Probateand What You Can Do NextMany residents in Allegheny County, Butler County, Beaver County, Washington County, and Westmoreland County have heard that probate is a lengthy, expensive, and public process. Unfortunately, this is truewithout proper estate planning, probate can be costly and time-consuming.The best way to avoid probate in Pennsylvania is to plan ahead using strategies such as revocable living trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint ownership structures. However, if you are already in a position where probate is required, the best thing you can do is educate yourself and seek experienced probate legal assistance to complete the process as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible.How Is a Probate Case Started in Pennsylvania?Probate can be initiated by any beneficiary or creditor, but most often, the process begins when the Executor named in the will files the original will and a petition with the Pennsylvania probate court.If there is no will, a close relative of the deceased (such as a spouse, child, or sibling) typically files the petition to become the Administrator of the Estate.Choosing the Executor for a Pennsylvania EstateIf a valid will exists, the individual named as Executor will handle the probate processif they are eligible and willingIf no Executor is available or no will exists, any interested party (such as a family member) can petition the Pennsylvania Orphans' Court to be appointed as the Administrator of the Estate.Executor Compensation in PennsylvaniaUnder Pennsylvania probate law, Executors and Administrators receive compensation based on a percentage of the total probate estate value. This is designed to fairly compensate them for their time and effort in managing estate matters.However, Executors can be held personally liable for any mistakes made during the process. Given the complexity of Pennsylvania probate rules, its critical to work with a skilled probate attorney to avoid legal pitfalls.Do You Need to Go Through Probate If a Trust Exists?In most cases, no. If the deceaseds assets were properly titled in the name of a trust, probate is not required. Instead, the successor trustee will work with an estate planning lawyer to administer the trust and distribute assets.However, many families are surprised to learn that simply having a trust does not guarantee that probate will be avoided. Common mistakes include: The trust was not updated over time to reflect new assets. The decedents assets were never properly transferred into the trust.To ensure your estate plan works as intended, its important to work with an estate planning attorney who provides ongoing trust maintenance and reviews.Which Assets Are Subject to Probate in Pennsylvania?Assets that must go through probate include: Real estate, bank accounts, or investments owned solely in the deceaseds name Personal property and valuable assets without a beneficiary designationAssets that bypass probate include: Jointly owned property with Right of Survivorship Bank accounts or investment accounts with Transfer on Death (TOD) or Payable on Death (POD) designations Life insurance policies and retirement accounts with named beneficiariesHowever, some assets that normally bypass probate can still become subject to the process under certain circumstances. Consult with a Pennsylvania probate attorney to determine if probate applies to your specific situation.How Pennsylvania Intestacy Laws Distribute an Estate When There Is No WillIf no valid will exists, Pennsylvania intestacy laws dictate how the estate will be distributed:1 Spouse (If married, a portion or all of the estate goes to the spouse)2 Children (If the deceased had children, they inherit next)3 Parents (If there are no children, parents inherit)4 Siblings (If no spouse, children, or parents, siblings inherit)This highlights the importance of estate planningwithout a will or trust, the state determines who receives your assets.How Long Does Pennsylvania Probate Take?The timeline for Pennsylvania probate varies depending on the estates complexity. On average: Minimum of 12 months for simple cases Up to 2+ years for complex estates, disputes, or tax-related mattersWhat Are the Costs of Probate in Pennsylvania?Probate costs in Pennsylvania include: Attorneys fees (Based on estate size and complexity) Court filing fees Executor fees (set by Pennsylvania law) Appraisal and valuation fees Publication and administrative costsIn more complex estates, additional fees may apply, increasing probate expenses and delays.How to Choose the Right Pennsylvania Probate AttorneySelecting the right probate lawyer in Pennsylvania is crucial. Many general practice lawyers dabble in probate law, but only experienced probate attorneys have the knowledge to navigate complex estate matters efficiently. You do NOT have to use the attorney who prepared the will. You have the right to choose a specialized probate lawyer who understands the nuances of Pennsylvania estate law and can expedite the process. Avoid costly mistakes. Working with an experienced probate attorney prevents errors that could increase costs, cause delays, or result in legal disputes.Contact Entrusted Legacy Law for a Complimentary Pennsylvania Probate ConsultationIf youre ready to begin the probate process in Pennsylvania, our Allegheny County and Butler County probate attorneys are here to guide you.Call us at 412-347-1731 to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation to determine your next best steps.During your consultation, we will: Answer your probate-related questions Provide guidance on estate administration Help you navigate the Pennsylvania probate process efficientlyWe are here to relieve the legal and administrative burden during this difficult time and ensure that your loved ones estate is handled with care.
Estate Planning for Everyone You Love and Everything You OwnHave you ever considered what would happenlegally and financiallyto you, your family, your assets, and everything you care about if the unexpected were to occur?If your estate plan is outdated or non-existent, your assets could be lost to the State Department of Unclaimed Property, subjected to an expensive and time-consuming probate process, or even end up in the wrong hands. Without a comprehensive estate plan, your loved ones may face unnecessary financial hardship, legal disputes, or court intervention at a time when they need certainty and protection the most.If you dont know exactly what would happen to everything you own and everyone you love, the first step is to gain clarity. You need to understand how your current estate plan (or lack thereof) will impact your family so you can make informed decisions about whether it truly aligns with your wishes.How Entrusted Legacy Law Helps You With Estate PlanningWe offer customized estate planning solutions designed to protect your family, preserve your wealth, and ensure your wishes are honored. Through our Life and Legacy Planning Session, we take the time to educate you on the legal, financial, and personal implications of your estate choices.Step 1: The Life and Legacy Inventory & AssessmentBefore your Life and Legacy Planning Session, you will complete a comprehensive estate inventory that outlines your financial assets, real estate holdings, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other valuable property. This step ensures that we have a full picture of your estate and can identify potential gaps in your asset protection strategy.Step 2: Creating a Personalized Estate PlanIf you decide that your current estate plan is inadequateor if you dont have one at allwe will work together to design a legally sound and strategically structured estate plan that meets your familys unique needs. The foundation of your estate plan will often include a revocable living trust, which allows you to transfer your assets into the trust while maintaining control during your lifetime.Benefits of a Revocable Living Trust: Avoid Probate Prevents the time-consuming and expensive court process that could otherwise delay asset distribution. Minimize Estate Taxes Helps reduce tax liabilities and protect your wealth for future generations. Ensure Privacy Unlike a will, which becomes public record, a trust ensures your estate remains private. Maintain Control Dictate how and when your assets are distributed to your heirs.For families with complex financial portfolios, business ownership, or special circumstances (such as blended families or special needs children), we offer advanced estate planning strategies tailored to your specific goals.Can You DIY Your Estate Plan?Many people wonder if they can create an estate plan using online templates or generic legal services. Unfortunately, most DIY estate plans fail when families need them the most. What often passes for "estate planning" is nothing more than basic document generation, where you answer a few questions and receive a generic template that may not fully protect your assets or your loved ones. No Personalization A generic template cannot address your unique family dynamics, financial situation, or specific legal concerns. Legal Loopholes Improperly structured wills or trusts may be contested in court, leaving your family in legal disputes. No Ongoing Maintenance Estate laws change, and without updates, your plan may become outdated and ineffective.At Entrusted Legacy Law, we dont just draft documentswe provide comprehensive estate planning services that ensure your estate plan actually works when it matters most. We take the time to understand your familys needs, educate you on your options, and create a legally enforceable, tax-efficient, and conflict-free estate plan that gives you peace of mind.Protecting Families & Minor Children Through Estate PlanningIf you are a parent with young children, your estate plan should begin with a solid foundation that ensures your children will always be taken care of, no matter what happens. Without the proper legal protections in place, your children could end up in the custody of someone you wouldnt have chosenor worse, under state guardianship.At Entrusted Legacy Law, we specialize in estate planning for families with minor children. We help parents:Name Legal Guardians Ensure your children are raised by trusted individuals of your choosing.Set Up Trusts for Minor Children Prevent financial mismanagement by appointing a responsible trustee to oversee assets.Establish Emergency Plans Provide clear instructions for immediate care in case of sudden incapacity or death.Whether youre planning for minor children, adult dependents, elderly parents, or a complex estate, we can guide you through the estate planning process with personalized strategies to protect your familys future.Secure Your Legacy With Entrusted Legacy LawEstate planning isnt just about who gets whatits about ensuring that your loved ones are financially secure, legally protected, and prepared for the future.If you want to create a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes, avoids probate, minimizes taxes, and keeps your loved ones out of court and out of conflict, then now is the time to take action Contact Entrusted Legacy Law today to schedule your Life and Legacy Planning Session and take the first step in protecting your family, your assets, and your future.
Our Firm Prepares You for Life What makes our firm different is that we were built with the needs of growing families in mind. We understand you are BUSY, you are growing, you are planning for a life of prosperity and you value ease, convenience and efficiency. You are raising children, and caring for elderly parents, while also working hard to build your own nest egg for a lifetime of support. You want to know youve made the best decisions for your family and that your plan will work when your loved ones need it most. You want to make sure your minor children would be raised by the people you choose, and never by anyone you wouldnt want, and that your teens and adult children are properly prepared to care for you and what you leave behind. You want to feel confident that youve made the right choices, and handled everything so that you arent leaving behind a mess, when something happens. That is our focus as well. Weve developed unique systems to give you the same access to a Personal Family Lawyer as was previously only available to the super-wealthy, so you can have the guidance you need to build and maintain a life of prosperity and wealth. And, to keep your family out of court and out of conflict, which is the greatest risk to the people you love and all you have created, even if youve already worked with a traditional lawyer or created documents online. Our Team Is Here for You We encourage communication with our clients. In fact, weve thrown out the time clocks so you never have to be afraid to call with a quick question. Everything we do is billed on a flat-fee basis, agreed to in advance, so there are never any surprises. We have a whole team to serve you. When you call our office to ask your quick question, you wont have to wait hours or days for a phone call back. Youll get your question answered, right away. And, if you need to schedule a more in-depth legal or strategic call with your Personal Family Lawyer, a call will be scheduled when you're both available and ready for the call so we can make the very best use of your time and not waste your time by leaving voicemail after voicemail back and forth. And, we ensure the most important details of your planning are followed through on and your plan continues to work throughout your lifetime. We have a funding coordinator to ensure your assets are owned the right way throughout your lifetime and none of your assets will end up going through a long, expensive court process or being lost to the state because they were missed after your death. Weve created unique membership programs to keep your plan up to date year in and year out as well as give you access to our Trusted Team of Legal Experts for guidance on ANY legal or financial matter. One day you will need a lawyer. I dont know why and I dont know when, but when you do, you will be grateful you can call on us and well be here to advise you or get you out of a jam. We Help You Transfer Your Life and Legacy Lastly, we believe your financial wealth is only a small part of your overall Life and Legacy Planning which is made up of your far more valuable and most often lost upon incapacity or death intellectual, spiritual and human assets. These assets are what make you who you are, and sum up whats most important to you. And, a survey of inheritors has revealed that what they care about even more than inheriting your money, is inheriting these intangible assets. Most estate plans only focus on the transfer of your financial wealth to the next generation. Most people have such great intentions of passing on the intangible, but very few ever get around to it. Its just not a priority, until its too late. How much do you know about your grandparents values? Their most prized personal possessions? How they felt about you? What they had learned during their lifetime? If you are like most people, you know very little. Thats why we build the capture and passage of these most valuable assets into every estate plan we create. Not only will we help you pass on your money, but also your values, your insights, your stories and your experience the truly valuable assets your loved ones care about the most. Weve developed a tool that allows us to capture and pass on your whole family wealth, including your Intellectual, Spiritual and Human assets. I cant go into all of the details here, but well definitely talk about it when you come in for your Life and Legacy Planning Session.