When a senior reaches full retirement age, they can elect to receive monthly Social Security benefits. However, for many reasons, individuals often elect to delay filing for Social Security, either to increase the monthly benefits they will later receive or to continue working and avoid paying taxes on these benefits.…
Boulder Estate Planning Legal Blog
Colorado Court Finds Attorney-Client Privilege Survives Client’s Death
The attorney-client privilege and duty of confidentiality are two of the most essential recognized privileges. They protect conversations and dealings between a client and their attorney. Colorado courts have consistently maintained these privileges to ensure full communication between lawyers and their clients, allowing the parties to resolve legal issues effectively.…
A Primer on Colorado Trusts
Trusts are an essential component of most Colorado estate plans. However, despite their importance, many individuals do not understand the basics of a trust, including their key concepts and terms. While trusts can sometimes be complicated, the following post breaks down the essential aspects and terms associated with a Colorado…
How to Apply for Veterans Benefits in Colorado
When creating a Colorado estate plan and preparing for the future of an older loved one, there are many angles and aspects to consider. Beyond the regular benefits many aging people can receive from the federal government, additional benefits can be given if the loved one served in the armed…
Why Colorado Estate Planning is Critical During the COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many people to do long term thinking, evaluating their life and their future. Thus, many individuals are starting to create a Colorado estate plan, so their family is taken care of in case of their unexpected passing. Despite this recent estate planning trend, 62% of…
Top Three Colorado Estate Planning Tips During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Since COVID-19 hit the United States, everyone has been in the process of adjusting to our new normal. Social distancing guidelines, stay at home orders, and masked faces are becoming a part of the new daily routine and have brought a slew of changes that have impacted nearly every aspect…
How to Pick the Right Trustee for a Colorado Estate Plan
Choosing a trustee to manage a Colorado trust after someone has died may seem like a simple decision; however, much thought should be put into it. From keeping a detailed record of trust account activity to reporting the income tax liability of the trust, performing the duties associated with being…
Colorado Estate Planning for Members of the Sandwich Generation
Many Colorado residents are members of what is often called the “sandwich generation”- people raising their own children while also taking care of their aging parents, thus being “sandwiched” between the two roles and care taking needs on both sides of the family tree. Being a part of the sandwich…
Creating a Colorado Estate Plan for Unmarried Couples
Creating a Colorado estate plan is essential for everyone, especially for couples who live together and are not married. According to the state intestate laws, the property of people who die without a will passes to their spouse or children. However, no federal or Colorado laws allow unmarried couples to…
Creating a Colorado Trust for a Loved One with Special Needs
Families support each other, through both the easy and the tough times. Because of this, it is understandable that a family would want to provide additional support to a loved one, especially if they require assistance because of a disability. Federal and state law allows family members to set up…