Learning Center

Search our comprehensive library of estate planning and probate guides to help you make informed decisions about your future.

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Estate Planning

Estate Planning Checklist

A comprehensive checklist of documents and decisions needed for a complete Illinois estate plan.

Powers of Attorney

Financial Power of Attorney in Illinois

Why you need a financial power of attorney and how to choose the right agent.

Tax Planning

Gift Tax Rules and Strategies

Learn about federal gift tax rules and how to make tax-free gifts to reduce your estate.

Powers of Attorney

Healthcare Power of Attorney

Ensure your medical wishes are honored by appointing a healthcare agent you trust.

Healthcare

HIPAA Authorization

Allow family members to access your medical information with a HIPAA authorization.

Probate

How to Avoid Probate in Illinois

Learn proven strategies to help your family avoid the time, cost, and hassle of probate court.

Trusts

How to Fund Your Trust

Essential guide to properly transferring assets into your trust so it works when needed.

Tax Planning

Illinois Estate Tax Overview

Understand Illinois estate tax, who it affects, and strategies to minimize it.

Probate

Illinois Probate Process Explained

Step-by-step guide to the Illinois probate process, including timelines, costs, and requirements.

Probate

Illinois Small Estate Affidavit

How to use a small estate affidavit to transfer assets without formal probate for estates under $100,000.

Estate Planning

Intestate Succession in Illinois

What happens to your estate if you die without a will in Illinois? Understand how state law distributes your assets.

Trusts

Irrevocable vs. Revocable Trusts

Compare irrevocable and revocable trusts to determine which type fits your estate planning goals.

Deeds

Life Estate Deeds

Learn how life estate deeds work and their pros and cons for Illinois property owners.

Healthcare

Living Will in Illinois

Document your end-of-life care preferences with an Illinois living will.

Trusts

Revocable Living Trust Basics

Understanding how revocable living trusts work, their benefits, and whether one is right for you.

Deeds

Transfer-on-Death Instrument (TODI)

Use a TODI to transfer Illinois real estate directly to beneficiaries without probate.

Deeds

Types of Property Ownership in Illinois

Understand how different forms of property ownership affect transfer at death.

Estate Planning

What Is Estate Planning?

Learn the fundamentals of estate planning and why every adult needs a comprehensive plan to protect their assets and loved ones.

Still Have Questions?

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