Jill M. Santiago Law Offices

Estate Planning Attorney in Rhode Island & Massachusetts

401-307-5556
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After My Living Trust is Set Up, How Long Until It’s Funded?

April 5, 2025 by Jill Santiago

A living trust is an excellent tool for estate planning. Think of it like a treasure chest – we build it and provide you with a couple of keys to the lock. But an empty treasure chest is essentially worthless. The same can be said for an unfunded living trust. Whether you have an existing […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts

Why Spring Is the Perfect Time to Review Your Estate Plan

March 10, 2025 by Jill Santiago

Life is constantly changing—marriages, births, new investments, retirement, and even changes in tax laws can impact your estate plan. If you haven’t reviewed your documents in a while, now is the perfect time to make sure they still reflect your wishes. Estate Plan Spring Cleaning Checklist by Jill M. Santiago, ESQ Review Your Will & […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts

How To Help Your Parents With Their Estate Planning The Right Way

February 24, 2025 by Jill Santiago

Let’s be real, talking about estate planning with your parents can be…awkward. But it’s also super important. You want to make sure they’re taken care of and that their wishes are honored, right? So, how do you navigate this tricky topic? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Here’s a down-to-earth guide to help your parents […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts

Wills Vs. Trusts Compared Side By Side

February 10, 2025 by Jill Santiago

Wills and trusts the two most common tools used in estate planning to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. While both serve the fundamental purpose of passing on wealth and protecting your loved ones, these documents function in different ways and offer distinct advantages. Understanding the key differences—such as probate avoidance, privacy, […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts, Probate

How To Make An Estate Plan For Couples In Second (Or Third) Marriages

January 13, 2025 by Jill Santiago

In the U.S., four out of ten marriages involve at least one person who has been married before. Second (or third) marriages come with unique challenges, mainly concerning finances and blended families. Estate planning for couples in second (or third!) marriages requires additional planning to protect your spouse and your family from unintended consequences, such […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts

Can I Leave Money to My Church When I Die?

November 18, 2024 by Jill Santiago

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 extend the spirit of generosity […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts

Should I Transfer My House To My Child While I Am Still Alive?

November 4, 2024 by Jill Santiago

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 into the pros and cons […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts, Family in Estate Planning, Housing, Real Estate

Does a Living Trust Protect Assets from a Nursing Home in Rhode Island?

October 24, 2024 by Jill Santiago

Nursing homes are really expensive and it is no wonder people are terrified about how to pay for long term care. The fear is not misplaced. The average nursing home will cost you about $10,000 per month. The average nursing home stay is 18 months. For the majority of Americans, this will quickly drain your […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts, Medicaid

How NOT to Work with an Estate Planning Attorney: The Halloween Edition 

October 7, 2024 by Jill Santiago

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 your estate planning attorney: 1. […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts, Holidays

Rhode Island Probate vs. Trust Administration Compared Side By Side

August 5, 2024 by Jill Santiago

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 and trust administration can significantly […]

Filed Under: estate planning wills and trusts, Probate, Trust Administration

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