"...[I]n this world nothing in this world can be certain, except death and taxes." - Benjamin Franklin Although Mr. Franklin may not have been the first person to say it, it is true! Thus, it is important to plan for income taxation during life as well as for any estate tax at death. Even though 2024 just started, it’s not too early to think about planning for whatever it may bring your way. Read on to learn more. Contact The Mendel Law Firm, L.P. at 281-759-3213 to schedule an appointment … [Read more...] about Tax Planning for 2024
Thought of the Day
“Life does not owe you anything because life has already given you everything." - Ralph Marston … [Read more...] about Thought of the Day
Thought of the Day
“There are two great days in a person’s life – the day we are born and the day we discover why." - William Barclay … [Read more...] about Thought of the Day
Let’s Talk Litigation
If you create an Estate plan, you want to ensure that the plan will work as intended. Additionally, you expect the Estate Plan will withstand legal challenges. Sometimes, a legal challenge is necessary to ensure that the Decedent's true intent is carried out and that the fiduciaries act in accordance with their duties. This article examines the most common ways that litigation arises in the Trusts and Estates arena. Read on to learn more. … [Read more...] about Let’s Talk Litigation
Thought of the Day
“Your best life will not be found in comfort. It will be found in fighting for what you believe in." - Maxime Lagacé … [Read more...] about Thought of the Day
Annual Estate Plan Reviews: Part II
In the blog last week, we considered five (5) important reasons to review your estate plan, but there are even more reasons to review your estate plan annually. Remember -- estate plans are dynamic and should evolve over time to stay in alignment with your current desires and circumstances. Thus, here are five (5) more compelling benefits of conducting annual estate plan reviews: 6. Philanthropic Goals: Charitable intentions can evolve over time. Whether it's a newfound cause you're … [Read more...] about Annual Estate Plan Reviews: Part II
Thought of the Day
“The greatest discovery of any generation is that a human being can alter his life by altering his attitude." - William James … [Read more...] about Thought of the Day
Annual Estate Plan Reviews: Part I
An estate plan is not a one-time endeavor. It's really a dynamic framework that evolves with the ebb and flow of one's life. Regular reviews are pivotal in ensuring your plan remains robust, accurate, and in alignment with your current desires and circumstances. We suggest reviewing your plan annually. Here are some benefits of conducting annual estate plan reviews: 1. Life Changes: Significant life events such as births, deaths, marriages, divorces, or even changes in relationships can … [Read more...] about Annual Estate Plan Reviews: Part I
Thought of the Day
“If you don’t like something change it; if you can’t change it, change the way you think about it." - Mary Engelbreit … [Read more...] about Thought of the Day
Planning Carefully When One Child Provides Most of the Caregiving
Estate planning can become complex when family dynamics are in play, especially in situations where one child assumes the primary caregiving role for an aging or ailing parent. Careful planning is necessary to balance fairness while acknowledging that child's additional contributions. Here's a structured approach to consider: Open Communication: Initiate a conversation with all family members involved. Transparency is essential to understand everyone’s viewpoint and to minimize potential … [Read more...] about Planning Carefully When One Child Provides Most of the Caregiving
