Flying Solo: Why Estate Planning Still Matters and What to Do Next

by | Oct 1, 2026 | Blog, Common Questions, Education, Estate Planning, Healthcare Decisions, Kerlin Walsh Law, News, Power of Attorney, Wills & Trusts

KEY TAKEAWAYS Who would step in if you couldn’t make decisions? The right decision-makers may not be the obvious ones. Your beneficiary choices deserve a closer look. Being single can change the tax planning equation. A plan puts you—not the law—in control. As a...

Choosing the Right People for the Right Roles in Your Estate Plan

by | Oct 1, 2026 | Blog, Common Questions, Education, Estate Planning, Healthcare Decisions, Kerlin Walsh Law, News, Power of Attorney, Wills & Trusts

KEY TAKEAWAYS The right person for one role may not be right for another. Trust matters, but so do availability and follow-through. A conversation now can prevent confusion later. A little organization can make a difficult job easier. Your choices may deserve another...

The Illinois Estate Tax Threshold in 2026: What Families Need to Know

by | Sep 24, 2026 | Blog, Common Questions, Education, Estate Planning, Inheritance Planning, Kerlin Walsh Law, Living Trusts, News, Wills & Trusts

A complete Illinois estate plan in 2026 is built from four working parts: a Revocable Living Trust, a Pour-Over Will, a Durable Power of Attorney for Property, and a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care. Together they decide who controls your money and your care...

Committed, Protected, Prepared: Estate Planning Tips for Unmarried Partners

by | Sep 23, 2026 | Blog, Common Questions, Education, Estate Planning, Healthcare Decisions, Kerlin Walsh Law, Living Trusts, News, Power of Attorney, Unmarried Partners, Wills & Trusts

KEY TAKEAWAYS Commitment alone may not give your partner legal protection. Without a plan, state law may decide who inherits your assets. Estate planning can protect more than what happens after death. Some accounts may not follow the instructions in your will or...

The Invisible Estate: Secure the Value You’ve Earned Through Loyalty and Reward Points

by | Sep 23, 2026 | Blog, Common Questions, Digital Assets, Education, Estate Planning, Kerlin Walsh Law, News, Wills & Trusts

KEY TAKEAWAYS Your rewards may have more value than you realize. Loyalty points are not treated like traditional assets. What happens to your points after death depends on the program. An inventory can help keep valuable rewards from disappearing. Your estate plan...

Do Not Let Your Money and Property Go to the State: Why You Need an Estate Plan

by | Sep 18, 2026 | Blog, Common Questions, Education, Estate Planning, Healthcare Decisions, Kerlin Walsh Law, News, Power of Attorney, Wills & Trusts

KEY TAKEAWAYS Without an estate plan, state law may make important decisions for you. Some of the people who matter most to you may not automatically inherit. Even an existing estate plan can leave unexpected gaps. Estate planning gives you choices state law does not....