Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | January 7, 2026 | Estate Planning
What Is an Attorney-in-Fact, and Why Do I Need One?
When planning for the future, it’s important to ensure that someone you trust is legally empowered to act on your behalf if you’re ever unable to do so. Designating an “attorney-in-fact” can help you accomplish this goal. What is an Attorney-in-Fact? An attorney-in-fact is a person authorized to act on behalf of another individual (known…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | December 29, 2025 | Estate Planning
How to Avoid Probate in Washington State
When planning for the future, many Washington residents are surprised to learn that their assets may have to go through probate after they pass away. Probate can be time-consuming, costly, and stressful for loved ones during an already difficult period. Fortunately, Washington law offers several effective ways to avoid probate and ensure your property is…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | December 9, 2025 | Probate Avoidance
5 Ways to Protect Your Estate from Probate in Washington State
When someone passes away in Washington State, their estate typically must go through a court process known as probate before assets can be distributed. This process, often referred to as probate in Washington State, can take months or even more than a year, depending on the size of the estate in question and whether any…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | December 3, 2025 | Estate Planning
Washington Just Adopted the Uniform Custodial Trust Act. Here’s Why That’s a Problem.
Washington recently adopted the Uniform Custodial Trust Act (UCTA). At first glance, it looks like a quick way to make an account “trust-like.” In practice, it can create false confidence and real risk for Spokane families navigating estate planning decisions. Many people will see this as a low-cost alternative to a living trust. The problem…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | November 19, 2025 | Estate Planning
What Is The Difference Between Durable Power of Attorney And General Power of Attorney?
When you create a power of attorney (POA) in Washington, you allow another person (known as your “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”) to act on your behalf in various kinds of legal matters, such as those based on finances and healthcare. Two of the most common types are durable and general powers of attorney. While they may…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | October 31, 2025 | Wills
Does a No-Contest Clause Really Work in a Will or Trust?
Estate planning ensures your wishes are honored after your death and prevents unnecessary family disputes. Yet, even the most carefully drafted will or trust can trigger tension among heirs. Many people include a no-contest clause in will provisions to discourage challenges. But does it actually work? Understanding how these clauses function, and when they might…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | October 9, 2025 | Estate Planning
National Estate Planning Awareness Week: Why It Matters for Washington Residents
Every October, National Estate Planning Awareness Week reminds Americans of the importance of preparing for the future. From October 20–26, people across the country are encouraged to review their financial and legal affairs to make sure their loved ones are protected. In Washington, estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy — it’s for anyone who…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | October 8, 2025 | Trusts
Can a Trust Help Me Reduce Washington State and Federal Estate Taxes?
Note: For deaths in 2026, the Washington State Department of Revenue sets the estate tax filing threshold and exclusion amount at $3,076,000 per individual. This exemption, which applies to both residents and non-residents with WA property, is not portable between spouses and does not include an automatic, 6 million combined exemption. Estate planning in Spokane can start to feel…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | September 24, 2025 | Estate Tax Planning
Three Ways to Save on Washington Estate Taxes
Note: For deaths in 2026, the Washington State Department of Revenue sets the estate tax filing threshold and exclusion amount at $3,076,000 per individual. This exemption, which applies to both residents and non-residents with WA property, is not portable between spouses and does not include an automatic, 6 million combined exemption. The Washington State estate tax is among the…
Elevated Estate Planning, P.S. | September 13, 2025 | Asset Protection
What Is a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT)?
If you are looking to qualify for Medicaid to receive help in paying for nursing home care, you may need to establish a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust (MAPT). A MAPT is an irrevocable trust that protects your assets from being counted against you when applying for Medicaid. When properly structured, MAPT assets will also not…