You may have built a life together without ever saying “I do”. If so, years of shared routines, finances and decisions can feel just as binding as any marriage. Yet in Massachusetts, the law does not see it that way. Without a clear plan, your partner may have limited...
Estate Planning
The MA Homestead Act: Protect your home and your family’s future
Owning a home in Massachusetts is more than a financial milestone — it is a major part of your long-term security. Yet many homeowners do not realize that their home equity could be exposed to unsecured creditors if unexpected debt or financial hardship occurs. The...
The role of digital assets in modern estate planning
Think about your phone right now. It holds thousands of photos, important emails, financial apps and social media accounts that tell your life story. When you pass away, what happens to all these digital pieces of your life? When creating an estate plan, it is crucial...
Two reasons parents of young children need an estate plan
Thinking ahead and planning is an important part of parenting. When you are getting ready for a family trip you make sure to have a plan for packing, lodging, activities, and even snacks. It is just as important to have an estate plan in place. Although often...
Millennials aren’t enthusiastic about estate planning
According to a study of 15,000 millennials, roughly 60% stated that they don't have a will or trust. These documents can be used to determine who gets a Massachusetts home or other assets after you pass away. It's recommended that everyone create an estate plan upon...
Preparing for lower estate tax exemptions
Many people in Massachusetts are revisiting their estate plans. That is because the federal estate and gift tax exemptions will be significantly reduced in 2026. These exemptions were almost doubled when the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was signed into law in 2017, but the...
Three important reasons to include advance directives in your estate plan
When you’re young, you might think you have plenty of time to create an estate plan in Massachusetts. That’s not the case, especially if you’re in a relationship. Anyone can fall victim to an accident or illness at any age. Your family needs a clear plan to follow...
Understanding the mechanics of a spendthrift trust
In Massachusetts, a spendthrift trust is an essential estate planning tool that offers a strategic approach to managing your financial assets and the well-being of your beneficiaries' finances. This vehicle can provide peace of mind that your heirs will receive their...
What should you look for in an executor in Massachusetts?
With estate planning, deciding who will be your executor is incredibly important. This person's job will be to carry out your final wishes and ensure that your estate gets handled according to your wishes. Selecting the right executor can ensure that your instructions...
Estate planning after remarriage
Although blended families are more common than in previous generations, they can create some unique estate planning challenges. Failing to take them into account could result in your children or grandchildren getting nothing from your estate. It could also result in...
