Personal Property

Can a Trustee Sell Trust Property Without All Beneficiaries Approving?

Most Common Types of Wills: How to Pick the One for You

A Will is one of the most important estate or end-of-life care planning documents that you can prepare. Learn which of the different types of Wills are right for you.

Foreclosure Crisis 2025: Will Foreclosures Increase in 2025?

Primary vs Contingent Beneficiary: What's the Difference

Estate Planning Guide: How to Provide for Your Loved Ones

What You Need to Know About Estate Taxes

‍<strong id="">Estate Tax Explained: What Families Need to Know in 2025</strong>Estate planning can be confusing, especially when navigating complex tax laws. This updated guide (originally published September 3, 2020, and refreshed on July 8, 2025) breaks down what estate tax is, who it affects, and how to minimize its impact. Estate tax—often called the "death tax"—is a federal tax on a deceased person’s estate before it passes to heirs. While it typically applies only to estates over <strong id="">$13.61 million</strong> (as of 2024), understanding it is crucial for long-term wealth preservation.Key distinctions are made between <strong id="">estate tax</strong>, <strong id="">inheritance tax</strong>, and <strong id="">probate tax</strong>, as well as the types of assets included in estate valuations—from real estate to life insurance. The blog also explores how state-level estate and inheritance taxes may apply, even when federal taxes do not.You'll learn how estate tax is calculated, current rates (up to 40%), and which states impose additional taxes like Massachusetts, Oregon, and Maryland. The article also shares <strong id="">expert strategies</strong> to reduce or avoid estate taxes using tools like <strong id="">trusts</strong>, <strong id="">lifetime gifting</strong>, <strong id="">spousal exemptions</strong>, and <strong id="">life insurance planning</strong>.Most importantly, the post emphasizes the value of <strong id="">professional legal help</strong> in estate planning. LegalShield offers affordable access to experienced estate attorneys who can help families create wills, manage estate tax exposure, and protect generational wealth—all starting at $26.95/month.<strong id="">Top takeaways:</strong><ul id=""><li>Federal estate tax only affects estates above $13.61M (2024 threshold)</li><li>Most middle-income families won’t owe federal estate tax</li><li>State-level estate/inheritance taxes may still apply</li><li>Planning tools like trusts and gifting reduce tax liability</li><li>LegalShield provides accessible, affordable estate planning support</li></ul><strong id="">Protect your family’s legacy—start planning today.</strong>

What is a Contingent Beneficiary?

<strong id="">Why Contingent Beneficiaries Are Critical to Your Estate Plan</strong>Naming a primary beneficiary is a common step in estate planning—but without a contingent beneficiary, your assets could be left in legal limbo. This comprehensive guide explains the importance of contingent beneficiaries for Wills, Trusts, life insurance, and retirement accounts. You’ll learn how contingent designations serve as a crucial backup plan, ensuring your assets go to the right people—even if your primary beneficiary is unavailable due to death, refusal, or legal disqualification.Key topics include:<ul id=""><li>What a contingent beneficiary is and how it works</li><li>Common legal issues when no backup beneficiary is named</li><li>Real-life scenarios where contingent beneficiaries prevent costly delays</li><li>How to add or update contingent beneficiaries across different asset types</li><li>The difference between primary and contingent beneficiaries</li><li>Special considerations for naming children or individuals with special needs</li><li>The legal rights of contingent beneficiaries before and after activation</li></ul>LegalShield offers affordable estate planning support, including lawyer-drafted documents, legal consultations, and guidance on properly naming contingent beneficiaries to avoid probate delays and family disputes.<strong id="">Optimize your estate plan today</strong> by understanding and naming contingent beneficiaries—because having a backup plan ensures your wishes are honored no matter what.

Co-signing Your Adult Child's Lease: A Parent's Guide

<strong id="">Should You Co-Sign Your Adult Child’s Lease? Legal Risks Every Parent Must Know</strong>Your 22-year-old just landed a dream job and found the perfect apartment—but the landlord requires a co-signer. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many parents face the tough decision of whether to co-sign a lease for their adult child. While it may feel like the right step to support their independence, it can also expose you to serious financial and legal risks.In this in-depth guide, LegalShield provider attorney Mike Fiffik from Fiffik Law Group, PC, shares essential insights every parent should know before signing on the dotted line. Learn the key differences between <strong id="">co-signing and guaranteeing a lease</strong>, common reasons young adults need support (limited credit history, student debt, low income), and the <strong id="">legal consequences</strong> of co-signing—including credit damage, wage garnishment, and liability for lease violations.Explore smart strategies to <strong id="">protect yourself</strong>, such as limiting your financial exposure, setting up automatic payments, requiring renter’s insurance, and reviewing lease renewal terms carefully. Plus, find <strong id="">alternatives to co-signing</strong>, like offering a larger security deposit, prepaying rent, or using third-party co-signer services.Before committing, seek legal advice to understand your rights and responsibilities under state law. Supporting your child’s rental journey shouldn't come at the cost of your financial stability. Visit LegalShield’s Renters Resource Center to learn how legal coverage can give you confidence and peace of mind.

How to Dispute a Lien on Your Property: Protecting Your Home

Can You Fight a Lien on Your House? Yes—Here’s How.

Make-A-Will Month Provider Firm Webinar Schedule

Creating a Will is one of the smartest legal steps you can take to protect your family, property, and legacy. In celebration of Make-A-Will Month this August 2025, LegalShield is proud to offer exclusive state-specific online webinars hosted by trusted provider law firms.

What Does a Real Estate Attorney Do?

Buying or selling property is one of the biggest financial decisions you’ll ever make—don’t go in unprotected.

What Is a FSBO?

Special Needs Trust Violations

Special Needs Trust Spending Rules

Understanding a Home Purchase Agreement