Jarvis Law Office

Estate Planning e-Newsletter

Click on the article title for access to our animated online newsletter.

• December 2014
  • The Charitable Remainder Trust: A Great Way to Donate
    Given the choice, most taxpayers would rather give to their own charities than pay taxes. With an IRS authorized Charitable Remainder Trust you can do just that ... and enjoy the lifetime benefit of an enhanced income stream.
  • The Trifecta of Charitable Giving Opportunities
    It has been said that “charity begins at home.” However, every dollar given to charity reduces the inheritance of your loved ones. Learn how a properly structured “Charitable Trifecta” can help you benefit both your favorite charity and your loved ones.
• November 2014
  • Estate Planning Pitfalls
    Pitfalls, like potholes, are more easily avoided if you know where they are. So it is with estate planning pitfalls. In our lead article, we point out some common pitfalls to avoid while you still can.
  • Are Reverse Mortgages Wise for Seniors?
    Have you seen infomercials with famous actors pitching the benefits of reverse mortgages? What is a reverse mortgage? Is it “too good to be true”? Perhaps, or perhaps not. How do you know if one is right for you?
• October 2014
  • Dementia and How to Handle It in Your Estate Planning
    Dementia is a dreaded disease that robs its victim of his or her mental capacity. However, ongoing personal, health care and financial decisions must continue to be made, whether minor or major. So, by whom will those fundamental decisions be made?
  • The Psychiatric Advance Directive and How to Use It
    Most people are familiar with “advance directives” to determine end-of-life care. What about “psychiatric advance directives”? These unique legal tools can provide your care and treatment wishes if you are mentally incapacitated, but are otherwise healthy. Do you have a PAD?
• September 2014
  • What Happens When a Loved One Dies?
    Fail to plan and you plan to fail. So it is with organization and estate administration. Our lead article offers some timely tips to help avoid leaving behind a big mess when you pass.
  • What Is Probate and Should I Try to Avoid It?
    Have you heard of “probate” before? Learn the basics of what it is and how it works. There are some fundamentals you can take care of today to ensure a successful probate later.
• August 2014
  • Chances Are …
    Most people only think of “death” when they think of estate planning. While that is true, it is not the full story. Planning in case of “disability” is essential to protect yourself and those you love.
  • Do You Feel Lucky? Well, Do You?
    Quick. If you were disabled, how long could you last without a paycheck? Do you know the odds of becoming disabled during your working years? You may have life insurance, but do you have adequate “income” insurance?
• July 2014
  • Adult Care Givers Need to Take Care of Themselves, Too
    Caregiving is a labor of love between adult children and their elderly parents. Nevertheless, the experience is not without its physical and emotional challenges for both the adult caregiver and the parent. Enter respite care.
  • Planning for a Vacation Home
    Is owning a vacation home one of your dreams? Will the property be for personal enjoyment, rental income or some fuzzy combination of the two? Unless you understand the tax implications, one of your dreams could become a nightmare.
• June 2014
  • Hey Dads: Are You Über Planners?
    Father’s Day is a favorite holiday, especially for “dads.” Being a dad has many privileges and responsibilities. Our lead article reminds dad of fundamental estate planning responsibilities needing attention during the other 364 days this year.
  • What Is a Legacy Letter?
    Letter writing is a lost art in the internet age. As a result, handwritten letters are special, especially if it is the last letter to a loved one. Our page three article will encourage you to write “legacy letters.” they will treasure for a lifetime.
• May 2014
  • Estate Planning Risks for Veterans
    Think Veterans Benefits are a piece of cake? Think again. While the government has many programs and benefits to assist veterans, learning about them and then successfully receiving them requires lots of information and documentation.
  • Get Your Act Together
    Organize your important records now for estate planning and emergencies later! You have heard it said that “no one plans to fail, they just fail to plan.” Since we never know when a natural or other disaster will strike, it pays to be prepared just in case.
• April 2014
  • An Introduction to Long-Term Care Planning
    Recent research has found that more than 70% of seniors over the age of 65 will need long-term care services and support at some stage of their lifetimes. What are your plans to pay for your care, if needed?
  • Spotting Elder Abuse and Steps for Prevention
    “Elder abuse” is real, just like its victims. Do you know how to spot elder abuse and elder abusers? Do you know how to protect yourself and prevent becoming a victim yourself? Where would you turn, if you needed help?
• March 2014
  • Taming Transfer Taxes
    "That time of the year" can be frightening or dreaded. While income taxes are on the top of every taxpayer's mind this time of year, our front page article discusses the benefits of reviewing your estate plan for lifetime gifting and inheritance planning opportunities.
  • The Future of Your Business
    We review Business Succession Plans. Now is the time to make proper plans to ensure the security of your family and the survival of your business later. There is too much to leave it all to chance.
• February 2014
  • Is There an Oscar for Best Estate Planning?
    Many people idolize movie stars and other celebrities. When it comes to mannerisms or clothes, this can be harmless fun. However, estate planning seems to be one area in which no one should emulate their favorite stars.
  • Is Justin Bieber a Grinch?
    Some people are more generous than others. Similarly, when it comes to celebrities, some are very generous ... and others are, well, not so generous. Regardless whether you are a rock star or not, getting solid legal counsel is key.
• January 2014
  • The ABC's of Estate Planning
    In our first article we review the process of organizing your personal legal affairs, a very common New Year’s resolution. As you will see, it is simply a matter of following the ABC’s of estate planning!
  • Estate Planning Checklist
    Give yourself and your loved ones the gift of having peace of mind by resolving your estate issues today. To help you begin the process, our second article provides a checklist of things you will need to bring with you when you meet with your estate planning attorney.