What Are Spousal Social Security Benefits?
Planning for retirement involves many complex decisions. For married couples, understanding how Social Security works is a critical piece of the puzzle. While many people are familiar with retirement benefits based on their own work history, a lesser-known but equally important component is spousal benefits. These provisions are designed to provide financial support to a …
Continue reading “What Are Spousal Social Security Benefits?”
In Trustee We Trust: What New Trustees Need to Know
Being chosen as the trustee of a trust is a significant honor: it means someone has a great deal of confidence in your judgment and integrity. But with that honor comes important legal and ethical responsibilities. If you’re new to the role, the first step is understanding what’s expected of you so you can manage …
Continue reading “In Trustee We Trust: What New Trustees Need to Know”
September 2025 Special Needs News
Explore these featured articles from our September newsletter: How Long Does It Take Before SSDI Benefits Begin? New Film Shows How Service Dogs Empower Children With Autism ABLE Accounts: Big Changes Coming in 2025-2027 Is Autism Considered a Disability?
September 2025 Estate Planning & Elder Law News
Explore these featured articles from our September newsletter: Approaching Retirement Age? View the Senior Happiness Index Pairing Medicare Coverage With Your Current Health Insurance How Charitable Remainder Trusts Fit into an Estate Plan Estate Planning and the Autopen Debate
How to Manage Your Google Account for Estate Planning
Digital assets have become a significant part of modern life, from emails and photos to important documents and subscriptions. Yet, many people overlook these assets when creating an estate plan. Failing to plan ahead for your online accounts can leave your loved ones without access to critical information or create unnecessary complications. For those with …
Continue reading “How to Manage Your Google Account for Estate Planning”
Cohabiting Seniors: How Can You Protect Your Rights?
A growing number of seniors today are choosing to live together without getting married. For many, this arrangement makes financial sense. Cohabitation allows older adults to maintain benefits from previous marriages, avoid inheriting each other’s financial burdens and address concerns from adult children about their inheritance. However, cohabitation comes with its own set of legal …
Continue reading “Cohabiting Seniors: How Can You Protect Your Rights?”
Sandra Schildgen, Esq. Discusses Estate Planning & Probate Law Flashpoints in IICLE Article
Attorney Sandra Schildgen, Esq. discusses Estate Planning & Probate Law Flashpoints in an IICLE article, focusing on a proposed Illinois Senate bill that would amend the requirements for property transfers using a small estate affidavit. READ FULL ARTICLE HERE
Why a Will May Not Be Enough to Protect Assets from Probate in Illinois
Estate planning empowers you to secure your family’s future and preserve your assets. Many individuals believe that drafting a will is sufficient to make sure their final wishes are carried out and their loved ones are provided for. However, in Illinois, relying solely on a will may leave your assets exposed to legal hurdles, excessive …
Continue reading “Why a Will May Not Be Enough to Protect Assets from Probate in Illinois”
How Can I Talk to My Parents About Creating an Estate Plan?
Discussing estate planning with your parents may feel uncomfortable or even daunting, but it is one of the most meaningful conversations you can have to protect their legacy and ensure peace of mind for your entire family. Proper planning avoids misunderstandings, prevents legal complications and ensures that their wishes are honored in the future. At …
Continue reading “How Can I Talk to My Parents About Creating an Estate Plan?”
Can a Trust Help Protect Assets from Creditors?
Asset protection is a common concern for individuals and families looking to safeguard their financial security and preserve their legacy for future generations. Unexpected lawsuits, economic uncertainties or unforeseen life events can pose significant risks to your wealth. At A/Z Wilson Estate Planning & Elder Law, we help clients preserve their assets through personalized, strategic planning. Placing all of …
Continue reading “Can a Trust Help Protect Assets from Creditors?”