What Is The Difference Between Dying Intestate vs. Testate in Massachusetts?

Planning for the inevitable is a crucial aspect of life, and estate planning plays a pivotal role in ensuring your assets are distributed per your wishes after your passing. In Massachusetts, as in many other states, individuals have two primary options for managing their estate: dying intestate (without a will) or testate (with a will)…. Read More »

What is the Significance of the Increase in Estate Tax Exemption in Massachusetts?

The increase in the estate tax exemption in Massachusetts carries significant implications for residents of the state, the state’s economy, and its fiscal policies. The estate tax exemption is the threshold at which an individual’s estate becomes subject to taxation upon their passing. What does this change mean to you? The increase in the estate… Read More »

Asset Protection in Massachusetts Estate Planning: Safeguarding Your Legacy

When you think of estate planning, you probably think of drafting a will or specifying who will getyour assets after your passing, but estate planning goes deeper than that. It involves acomprehensive strategy to protect your wealth, ensuring your loved ones receive their rightfulinheritance while minimizing potential risks, such as taxation and creditor claims. In… Read More »

Updating Your Massachusetts Estate Plan: Key Steps Before the New Year

As 2023 draws to a close, it’s a perfect time to revisit your Massachusetts estate plan andensure it’s up-to-date and aligned with your current wishes and the latest legal requirements.Estate planning is an ongoing process, and making the necessary updates before the new yearcan provide you with peace of mind and protect your legacy. Today… Read More »

Timing Matters: The Best Age to Start Estate Planning in Massachusetts

Estate planning is a crucial financial and legal process that provides peace of mind, ensures the orderly distribution of assets, and minimizes potential complications for heirs. However, many people in Massachusetts often wonder when the ideal time is to embark on estate planning. This article will discuss the best age to start estate planning in… Read More »

Estate Planning: What You Need to Consider

There are many factors to consider when it comes to estate planning. From choosing the right Executor,which in Massachusetts is now known as a Personal Representative, to deciding the distribution of yourassets, it can be overwhelming to navigate the process. Here are some key things to keep in mind whenplanning your estate: Contact O’Connell Law… Read More »

How to Start Estate Planning

Estate planning is an important process that should be considered by everyone at some point in their life. It involves making critical decisions about how your assets will be distributed after you pass away. Many individuals put off estate planning because they believe it is only for the wealthy or elderly, but this is not the case. Regardless of your age, income, or family situation, estate planning is a crucial step in securing your legacy and safeguarding your loved ones. In this article, we will share some helpful tips on how to get started with estate planning. To begin, take inventory of your assets, decide on your beneficiaries, choose an executor, create a will, and consider a trust. By following these steps, you can ensure that your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are taken care of. Start estate planning today!