Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Frequently Asked Questions About Probate in Washington State
You have probably heard the term “probate” in connection with the death of a family member or close friend. But you may not fully understand what it means. In this article, we will look at some of the more frequently asked questions about probate here in Washington State, and what you need to know… Read More »
What is the Difference Between a Living Will and Power of Attorney?
Estate planning involves the execution of a number of different types of documents and other tasks that all work towards the same goal – to organize your estate for the future. The estate planning tools you use will depend on your own specific situation. However, most people should make their medical wishes known and… Read More »
Three Ways to Save on Washington Estate Taxes
The estate tax in Washington is among the highest in the country. The amount of estate taxes range from 10 to 20 percent and they increase depending on the value of the estate. Unlike other states, though, Washington does not have an inheritance tax. An inheritance tax is placed on the beneficiaries of the… Read More »
Tips for Avoiding Probate in Washington State
Going through the probate process in Washington State can be an expensive and time-consuming undertaking. The longer probate takes, the longer your beneficiaries will have to wait to receive the inheritance you left for them. However, not all estates in Washington have to go through the probate process and there are tips you can… Read More »
What is a Living Will in Washington?
Nobody wants to think about the end of life and it is easy to put it off, particularly for those who are young and healthy. However, careful planning can ensure that your final wishes are fulfilled and that you are treated with dignity. While living wills are an important part of any estate plan,… Read More »
Do All Estates Have to Go Through Probate in Washington?
Probate is a legal process overseen by the courts that is sometimes required after a person passes away. Probate gives the personal representative of a person’s estate the authority to pay the taxes and debts of the deceased, collect their assets, and ultimately transfer assets to beneficiaries. The personal representative of the estate is… Read More »
4 Things You Need to Know About Washington State Medicaid Planning for 2024
For many Washington residents aged 65 and older, the cost of receiving long-term nursing home or other institutional care is prohibitively expensive. Medicaid can provide benefits to cover these costs. But there are strict income limits and other eligibility requirements a senior must follow in order to qualify and remain eligible. So if you… Read More »
Does a Revocable Trust Create a “Property Interest” for the Contingent Beneficiaries?
Revocable trusts are meant to provide a high degree of flexibility when it comes to estate planning. That is to say, if you create a revocable trust, you are essentially free to amend, alter, or even revoke the trust at any time during your lifetime. The trust itself does not become irrevocable until your… Read More »
Does Your Washington Business Need to Comply with the Corporate Transparency Act?
Starting on January 1, 2024, certain legal business entities registered in the State of Washington must comply with the new Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Rule previously announced by the U.S. Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). Moulton Law Offices recently published an online tool to assist you in determining whether your business entity… Read More »
Why is Estate Planning for Single People So Important?
Many people are getting married later in life, whether or not they have children before then. Due to this, more people are spending a greater portion of their life single. Being single, though, does not mean that it is not important to create an estate plan. Below, one of our Spokane estate planning lawyers… Read More »