by Santiago Olivares | Oct 7, 2026 | Estate Planning, California, Trust administration, Inheritance
Many beneficiaries worry they must immediately report an inheritance to the IRS. In most cases, inherited cash, property, and investments are not treated as taxable income simply because they were inherited. However, certain situations can trigger reporting... 
by Santiago Olivares | Oct 6, 2026 | Estate Planning, California, Living Trust, Inheritance, Trust
Many beneficiaries wonder whether they can require a trustee to distribute assets immediately after a loved one’s death. In California, the answer depends on the circumstances. Trustees have legal duties that must often be completed before distributions occur.... 
by Crista Hermance | Sep 23, 2026 | Estate Planning, California, Probate, Inheritance, Trust
It is possible to refuse an inheritance in California. The legal process is known as a disclaimer. By properly disclaiming an inheritance, a beneficiary can decline property, money, or other assets they would otherwise receive. However, specific legal rules apply, and... 
by Santiago Olivares | Jun 17, 2026 | California, Usa, Living Trust, illness, Inheritance, Trust, Special Needs
A special needs trust can help families leave money or property to a loved one with disabilities without unnecessarily affecting eligibility for certain needs-based government benefits. For California families, proper planning can provide long-term financial support,... 
by Santiago Olivares | Jun 17, 2026 | Estate Planning, Living Trust, Living Will, Inheritance, LGBTIQ+
LGBTQ+ estate planning helps LGBTQ+ individuals, couples, and families protect their loved ones, assets, healthcare decisions, and legacy. Although California provides strong legal protections for LGBTQ+ residents, estate planning remains essential. Proper trusts,... 
by Santiago Olivares | Jun 10, 2026 | Estate Planning, California, Usa, Consultation, Living Trust, Inheritance, mistakes, crisis, emergency, trustee, Medi-Cal
Many California families fear that Medi-Cal benefits could result in the loss of a family home after a loved one passes away. The good news is that California significantly limited Medi-Cal estate recovery in recent years. However, homeowners should still understand...
