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Special Needs Trust Spending: A Guide for California Families
At Desert Law Group, we understand the care and concern families feel when planning for the future of a loved one with disabilities. A Special Needs Trust (“SNT”) offers a thoughtful way to provide for them without risking their access to essential government benefits. In this article, we’ll explore how these trusts work and provide […]
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How to Divide an Estate Between Siblings in California?
When a loved one passes away, they often leave behind more than just memories. Assets like a family home, personal belongings, and financial accounts also need to be addressed. For siblings, dividing an estate can be a daunting process, especially when emotions run high. This guide will walk you through the key steps to ensure […]
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Proposition 13 & Property Tax Transfers: What California Homeowners Need to Know
California homeowners know that property taxes can feel like a moving target. Between changing rules and new propositions, understanding how these laws affect your estate can be confusing. At Desert Law Group, we’re here to clear up the confusion, especially when it comes to Proposition 13 and Proposition 19. These laws significantly impact how property […]
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Independent Trustees in California: All You Need to Know
Estate planning can feel overwhelming, but understanding the different roles involved can make the process much smoother. One key player you might not be familiar with is the independent trustee. Choosing the right trustee can have a significant impact on your estate plan, especially in terms of fairness, efficiency, and peace of mind for your […]
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Need to Change the Trustee of Your Revocable Trust? Here’s How
Life happens. Maybe the friend you trusted to handle your estate plan has moved out of state, is having a health event, or your family situation has shifted. Whatever the case, changing the trustee of your revocable trust is sometimes necessary to keep everything on track for you. But don’t worry—it’s more straightforward than you […]
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Precise Wording in Your California Will
At Desert Law Group, we’ve spent over 25 years guiding Californians through the delicate process of estate planning. Our focus is usually on ensuring that our clients’ loved ones are well provided for. But sometimes, people wish to go in a different direction—leaving specific individuals out of their inheritance. Although it’s a sensitive matter, there […]
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Important Update: Social Security Administration Announces 2025 Cost of Living Adjustment
As part of your estate planning considerations, it’s essential to stay informed about financial changes that could impact you, your beneficiaries and your overall financial strategy. The Social Security Administration (SSA) has announced the annual cost of living adjustment (COLA) for 2025, which is particularly relevant for those receiving Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security […]
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How to Cash in on Your Home (Without Moving Out)!
Since the pandemic beginning in 2020, the cost of goods has increased significantly. Older Americans are finding their retirement savings are not going quite as far as they had expected. As older adults consider different ways to supplement their retirement incomes, one consideration is a reverse mortgage. But what is it, and when might it […]
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Can an Executor Change a Will? Role and Limits of an Executor in California
Many people assume an executor has full control over a will, but here’s a common surprise: executors can’t change the will’s terms. They must follow its instructions as written. At Desert Law Group, we’ve helped many families in the Coachella Valley handle the ins and outs of probate and understand these nuances. Let’s clarify what […]
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I Am a Power of Attorney in California, Now What?
You’ve been named as someone’s agent under the Power of Attorney in California – congratulations on being trusted with this important role! It’s a big responsibility, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Desert Law Group, we understand that stepping into this position can feel a bit daunting, and we’re here to guide you […]
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