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When people think about estate planning, they often focus on what happens after they pass away. But planning for the “what ifs” of life is just as important. One of the most powerful tools for protecting yourself and your loved ones during your lifetime is a Durable Power of Attorney...

Essential estate planning tips for college freshmen: key documents every young adult needs to protect finances and healthcare decisions.

Some people hear the term “estate plan” and assume it is reserved for the ultra wealthy.  I assure you, that is not the case! Anyone over the age of 18 should consider making an estate plan. Your “estate” simply refers to your possessions - the money in your bank account,...

Adults who are no longer able to handle their finances or make healthcare decisions for themselves are set up for “living probate,” which refers to a guardianship or conservatorship. In simpler terms, you want to avoid guardianship for the same reason you want to avoid probate. The real situation you...

Planning for a loved one with special needs requires more than just good intentions—it requires thoughtful, strategic action. Leaving assets directly to a special needs beneficiary, even with the best of intentions, can unintentionally jeopardize their eligibility for essential government benefits like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). That’s where...

Inheriting real estate can be both a financial opportunity and a potential source of stress—especially when multiple heirs are involved. Deciding whether to keep or sell the property depends on a variety of legal, financial, and emotional factors. Below, we explore the pros and cons of each option, how the...

Avoid costly delays in estate planning—learn the financial and emotional impacts of procrastination and how to prepare effectively.

As the season of giving approaches, many people reflect on how they can make a lasting impact on the causes that matter most to them. For some, this includes leaving a gift to their church or a cherished organization as part of their estate planning. Thoughtful planning allows you to...

When creating an estate plan, many clients ask whether transferring their property to their children while they’re still alive is a smart decision. The answer is “it depends.” Making this transfer can have lasting impacts—both positive and negative—on family dynamics, finances, and estate planning. So, without further ado, let’s dive...

Estate planning may not seem like a Halloween horror story, but ignoring the essentials can haunt you later. Working effectively with your attorney is key to keeping the skeletons out of your financial closet and protecting your loved ones. Here are some frightening mistakes you should avoid when working with...

The short definition of probate is: “Probate is the court action that changes the title of assets from a deceased person to the beneficiaries or heirs.” Whether or not someone leaves a will, probate is often necessary. It is a common misconception that creating a will, or holding assets jointly,...

Do you need a will, or do you need a trust? Confused about the difference? The major difference is probate - which is the court process that applies to a person’s estate whether they leave a will or not. When it comes to estate planning, understanding the difference between probate...

Understand the 5 key roles in a living trust—grantor, trustee, successor, beneficiaries & advisors. Rhode Island guide by Jill M. Santiago.

A living trust is a common estate planning tool. When creating your trust, one of the most important choices you'll make is who will serve as your trustee. In most cases, at the time you create your living trust, you will be your own trustee for as long as you...

Create a tailored estate plan for Rhode Island-Florida snowbirds with expert guidance to protect your assets and legacy today.

When creating an estate plan, it is not uncommon for people to overlook important details or resort to shortcuts that lead to complications down the road. Over the years I have become familiar with the many shortcuts people take in their estate planning and the many pitfalls of inadequate planning....

In today's digital age, convenience is king. With just a few clicks, you can order groceries, book travel, and yes, even create an estate plan online. While the allure of do-it-yourself solutions may seem tempting, there's one crucial aspect that online services lack – personalized expertise. In this blog post,...

Special needs planning is designed to provide a secure and supportive future for individuals with disabilities, ensuring their needs are met long after their caregivers have passed. In this post, we will explore who benefits from special needs estate planning, when and why it is crucial and the compassionate foundation...

Caring for a loved one with special needs involves unique challenges, including financial planning for their future well-being. Special Needs Trusts, sometimes referred to as Supplemental Needs Trusts,  are powerful tools designed to provide for individuals with special needs while preserving their eligibility for government assistance programs. What is a...

Confused about Estate Planning and don't know where to start? Here are a few Frequently Asked Questions that may help:     Do I need an estate plan? Yes, if you have any assets and care about who receives them after your passing, as well as who will oversee their...