"Problematic Assets in Planning & Estates" written on a board

Problematic Assets in Planning and Estates

By Kimberly Whitley

Certain types of assets routinely cause issues in estate planning and administration. The issues and suggested solutions are detailed below:

Mobile Homes. Frequently, clients transfer mobile homes by executing a Bill of Sale rather than transferring the Certificate of Title for the mobile...
Continue reading…
An elderly man discussing with his lawyer regarding retirement accounts

Changes in Retirement Accounts for 2020

Congress has passed the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (“SECURE ACT”), effective as of January 1, 2020. The SECURE Act contains some major changes for distributions relating to retirement accounts, including the following:

Stretch payments. In general, a spouse beneficiary can continue to roll over...
Continue reading…
A nurse in blue overalls pushing a stretcher in a hospital

Medicaid Planning In A Crisis

Although planning in advance for facility care is best, an unanticipated health event may necessitate instant action to protect assets. Some techniques which may work are set forth below:

Purchasing a one-percent (1%) interest in the homesite or other real property as joint tenants with right of survivorship. If a...

Continue reading…
Lawyer wearing a suit and tie

Top Ten Mistakes in Estate Planning

Originally written by Kim Whitley for Outlook Newspaper.

Proper Planning can reduce the difficulty of handling an estate. Avoid these mistakes to make the estate process easier:

1. Not adding beneficiary designations to assets, including bank accounts.

Assets which pass by beneficiary designation...

Continue reading…
Two lawyers sitting at a table

Shortcuts In Estate Administration

Originally written by Kim Whitley for Outlook Newspaper.

Handling an estate can be a difficult task. Fortunately, North Carolina offers some “short forms” of estate administration to make the process easier and avoid a full administration:

1. DMV Form MVR-317. If a vehicle is the only asset...

Continue reading…
Grandmother playing with her toddler granddaughter

What is Elder Law?

As the average life expectancy continues to rise, so does the need for the branch of law known as elder law. This area of law focuses on protecting and advocating for the aging and elderly along with their caretakers and loved ones. It covers a wide range of legal services from basic...

Continue reading…