Estate Planning – Hardy Law Firm

Does a Power of Attorney End at Death?

Kevin Hardy — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 01:32:01 +0000

Although every state's laws and forms vary, most power of attorney forms specify that the agency relationship created by a power of attorney ends upon a person’s death.

Appointing an Executor? Here's What a Personal Representative Cannot Do

Kevin Hardy — Wed, 22 Feb 2023 00:50:34 +0000

If you are preparing a will, it is important to choose an executor you can trust, who is reliable, and who will take their role seriously. As part of your decision-making, you may also consider the things they would be prohibited from doing.

Start 2023 Prepared: Reassess What Matters Most

Kevin Hardy — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 00:20:10 +0000

If we have learned anything these past few years, it's that life is fleeting. Amid such uncertain times, many of us have realized what - and who - truly means the most to us.

What Is a Special Needs Trust?

Kevin Hardy — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 19:26:39 +0000

Special needs trusts allow a disabled beneficiary to receive inheritances, gifts, lawsuit settlements, or other funds and yet not lose her eligibility for certain government programs.

What Are Survivor Benefits?

Kevin Hardy — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 13:24:45 +0000

The Social Security Administration provides survivor benefits to the children and spouses of deceased individuals who qualify.

If You Don’t Want an IRA Distribution, You Can Donate It to Charity

Kevin Hardy — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 04:28:21 +0000

Not everyone needs their required minimum distributions from their retirement accounts to make ends meet. If you don’t need your distribution, one option is to donate it to charity and not pay taxes on it.

SECURE Act Changes to Retirement Plans

Kevin Hardy — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 04:16:23 +0000

A spending bill signed into law by the President contains major changes to retirement plans. The bipartisan legislation is designed to provide more incentives to save for retirement, but it may require workers to rethink some of their planning.

Using a Roth IRA as an Estate Planning Tool

Kevin Hardy — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 02:28:49 +0000

A Roth IRA does not have to be used as just a retirement plan; it can also be a way to transfer assets tax-free to the next generation.

Understanding the Tax Consequences of Inheriting a Roth IRA

Kevin Hardy — Mon, 04 Apr 2022 02:02:01 +0000

Passing down a Roth IRA can seem like a good idea, but it doesn't always make the most sense. Before converting a traditional IRA into a Roth IRA to benefit your heirs, you should consider the tax consequences.