Many people have heard of a trust but remain uncertain about what they actually do or how they can enhance an estate plan. In simple terms, a trust is a legal relationship in which one party holds and manages assets for the benefit of another. When carefully designed, a trust can provide control, protection, and efficiency that traditional estate planning tools often lack. Selecting the right type of trust ensures your plan reflects your personal goals, safeguards your family, and supports … [Read more...] about Common Trusts and Your Indiana Estate Plan
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Supporting an Indiana Caregiver during National Family Caregivers Month
Across the United States, millions of individuals devote their time and energy to caring for aging parents, disabled relatives, or loved ones with serious medical conditions. These caregivers offer daily support, often without compensation or acknowledgment. Their efforts sustain families and communities, yet the physical, emotional, and financial toll they experience can be immense. Each November, National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) recognizes their dedication and encourages others to … [Read more...] about Supporting an Indiana Caregiver during National Family Caregivers Month
Is It Time to Revisit Your Indiana Special Needs Plan?
Parents and caregivers of children with special needs understand the deep sense of responsibility that comes with ensuring a loved one’s lifelong care and financial security. Creating a special needs plan is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your child’s well-being both now and in the future. Yet, it is not enough to simply create the plan and forget about it. Life circumstances, laws, and financial situations evolve over time, and your plan must evolve along with them. The … [Read more...] about Is It Time to Revisit Your Indiana Special Needs Plan?
Including Intellectual Property in Your Indiana Estate Plan
Intellectual property often represents some of the most valuable assets a person can own, yet it is frequently neglected when people prepare their estate plans. Unlike a home, vehicle, or investment account, these assets are intangible, but the financial rewards and recognition they generate can be significant. If you have written books, patented an invention, created music, designed software, or built a brand, your intellectual property deserves careful attention within your estate plan. For … [Read more...] about Including Intellectual Property in Your Indiana Estate Plan
Understanding the Difference Between Per Stirpes and Per Capita
A carefully crafted estate plan ensures that your property passes to your intended beneficiaries after your death. Without one, the State of Indiana will distribute your estate according to its intestate succession laws, which may not reflect your personal wishes. Even with a valid Will or trust in place, the use of inaccurate legal terms can undermine your goals. One area where this often occurs involves the distinction between distributing assets per stirpes and per capita. The Indianapolis … [Read more...] about Understanding the Difference Between Per Stirpes and Per Capita
Including Your Grandchildren in Your Indiana Estate Plan
Creating an estate plan is one of the most lasting gifts you can give your family. For grandparents, the process represents more than simply dividing property. It reflects your values, your love, and your desire to provide long-term stability. A comprehensive plan ensures your assets are used wisely and that your intentions guide future generations. Toward that end, the Indianapolis attorneys at Frank & Kraft explain how Indiana residents can thoughtfully include their grandchildren in an … [Read more...] about Including Your Grandchildren in Your Indiana Estate Plan
How Does Retiring Early or Late Affect My Social Security Benefits in Indiana?
For most Americans, Social Security continues to serve as an essential part of their retirement income, even though it rarely provides the full amount needed to maintain one’s lifestyle. When planning for retirement, deciding when to begin collecting Social Security benefits is one of the most important choices you will make. Whether you start early, at full retirement age, or later, that decision can significantly influence your long-term financial security. To help you make an informed … [Read more...] about How Does Retiring Early or Late Affect My Social Security Benefits in Indiana?
How Much Discretion Should a Trustee Have?
Adding a trust to an estate plan is one of the most effective ways to safeguard assets and provide ongoing financial security for family members. When you establish a trust, one of the most important decisions you will make is how much authority the Trustee should have in managing and distributing trust property. The degree of discretion you grant can significantly influence the effectiveness of the trust and the overall protection it provides. If you are considering incorporating a trust into … [Read more...] about How Much Discretion Should a Trustee Have?
Avoid These 10 Common Mistakes When Drafting Your Last Will and Testament
For many people, a Last Will and Testament is the first step in building an estate plan and often remains a central document for decades. Your Will determines how your estate is divided, who is placed in charge of the process, and how personal matters are addressed after you pass away. Despite understanding its importance, individuals frequently make significant mistakes when creating their Will. These errors can lead to costly disputes, confusion among heirs, and outcomes that do not match the … [Read more...] about Avoid These 10 Common Mistakes When Drafting Your Last Will and Testament
How Does the OBBBA Impact My Indiana ABLE Account?
On July 4, 2025, Congress enacted the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), a sweeping legislative package that revised federal tax rules and transfer laws. Although much of the national dialogue has focused on revisions to estate and gift taxes, the measure also brought meaningful updates to ABLE accounts. For Hoosiers with disabilities and their families, these new provisions affect how accounts can be opened, funded, and utilized. To help families understand the impact, the Indianapolis … [Read more...] about How Does the OBBBA Impact My Indiana ABLE Account?
