Estate Planning Leigh Cowden Estate Planning Leigh Cowden

Embracing the Future: Why Digital Assets Matter in Estate Planning

In an increasingly digital world, our lives are intertwined with an ever-expanding array of digital assets, from social media accounts and email accounts to cryptocurrency and digital photo libraries. Yet, amidst this digital revolution, many individuals overlook the importance of including digital assets in their estate planning. As we navigate the complexities of modern life, it’s essential to recognize the significance of digital assets and take proactive steps to ensure their proper management and distribution in the event of incapacity or death.

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Estate Planning Leigh Cowden Estate Planning Leigh Cowden

Understanding the IRS Decision: Waiving Mandatory Withdrawals from Inherited IRAs

In a move that could significantly impact individuals inheriting retirement accounts, the IRS recently announced changes to the rules governing Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from certain inherited Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs). This decision has sparked conversations among financial experts and beneficiaries alike, as it introduces new flexibility and considerations for retirement planning.

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Estate Planning Leigh Cowden Estate Planning Leigh Cowden

Ensuring Your Furry Friends’ Future: A Guide to Estate Planning for Pets

Pets hold a special place in our hearts, becoming cherished members of our families. Just as we plan for the well-being of our loved ones after we’re gone, it’s equally important to consider the future of our dogs, cats, horses and other animals. Estate planning for these special family members ensures that they will continue to receive the care and love they deserve even when we’re no longer able to provide it ourselves. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of estate planning for our four-legged friends and provide a comprehensive guide to help you secure their future.

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Estate Planning Leigh Cowden Estate Planning Leigh Cowden

Pros and Cons of a Florida Ladybird Deed

A Florida Ladybird Deed, also known as an Enhanced Life Estate Deed, is an increasingly popular legal instrument used in estate planning. This type of deed allows property owner(s) to retain control over their homestead property without losing the homestead or tax benefits, while also designating beneficiaries who will inherit it upon their passing. Like any legal tool, there are advantages and disadvantages associated with the use of a Florida Ladybird Deed. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of this estate planning option.

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Estate Planning Leigh Cowden Estate Planning Leigh Cowden

The Dangers of DIY Estate Planning

I’ve had several new clients come to my office with legal documents they downloaded off the Internet, or legal documents they paid some online service for (Legal Zoom, etc.) that created huge, expensive problems for them, or could have caused problems for them if they hadn’t taken these documents to an attorney for review before they passed away.

The problem with Internet legal advice is that sometimes things that look like perfectly good facts are actually just data picked up and presented either by some artificial intelligence bot or a person who is not licensed to practice law in that state. That information is often, at best, erroneous, and at worst, downright wrong.

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