Tag Archives: same sex marriage estate planning

Does Illinois Recognize a Same-Sex Marriage from Another State?

No.  As of this writing, Illinois law prohibits a marriage between two people of the same sex and does not recognize a same-sex marriage performed in a state where it is legal, for example, Massachusetts.
The Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act states that “a marriage between 2 individuals of the same sex” is [...]

Tool # 5 in the Life Planning Toolbox – the Will

You die.  You left no will.  Maybe you were too busy or just kept putting it off.  Maybe you thought you didn’t have enough property or money to justify having a will.
For LGBT persons, a will is not optional.   Dying without a will guarantees that your property will be automatically distributed to your legal heirs, [...]

Tool # 4 in the Life Planning Toolbox – Beneficiary Designations

Have you considered life insurance as a way to provide for your loved ones if you die unexpectedly?
Who do you want to receive the benefits of your life insurance when you die?
If you have a company pension, 401(k), 403(b), IRA or other retirement assets, who will receive them when you die?

It’s easy to forget whom [...]

Make Sure Your Loved Ones Inherit Your Property

A will is a legal document that allows you to control who will receive your property when you die, and how and when they’ll receive it.  It also allows you to name someone to carry out the instructions in your will, and allows you to nominate a guardian for your minor children.
If you die without [...]