Creating a living trust is one of the most effective ways to protect your estate, avoid probate, and maintain privacy. Yet even the best trust can only control the assets it actually owns. Many people take the time to establish a trust but forget to fund it completely, leaving some property outside its reach. When […]
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IRS Makes Retirement Plan Changes for 2026
The Internal Revenue Service has issued a release explaining changes in retirement plan limits for 2026. Below is a summary of this release. The provisions can be complex, so current and prospective plan participants should work with a financial professional. Highlights of changes for 2026 The annual contribution limit for employees who participate in […]
Elder Law Alert: Medi-Cal Asset Limit Is Returning in 2026
A quiet but important change is about to affect Medi-Cal eligibility in California. Beginning January 1, 2026, the state will reinstate asset limits for non-MAGI Medi-Cal programs, including long-term care coverage. If you are age 65 or older and may need skilled nursing care in the future, this shift could have serious financial consequences. For […]
The Seedier Side of the Holidays
Scammers will use any leverage possible to separate you from your money. This includes preying upon a grandparent’s love and concern for their grandchildren. The so-called grandparent scams are among the most popular scams targeting the elderly and rely upon details gleaned from social media sites to make the call seem realistic. It’s important to recognize the signs of potential scams and understand how to guard against them.
Estate Planning for Unmarried Couples
If you are in a committed relationship but have decided to remain an unmarried couple, you still need to plan to protect your assets for yourselves and your children. We know that complexities can pop up suddenly, so it is never too early to start a shared estate plan. Because unmarried couples do not […]
Legacy Planning for Grandchildren: Sharing Family Roots
Your estate plan can do more than transfer wealth. It can guide your grandchildren, preserve your family’s identity, and offer a personal connection that outlasts your lifetime. In Petaluma, where values often run as deep as vineyards and family stories are tied to land, legacy planning for grandchildren gives you the tools to shape the […]
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