Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Can a Trust Help Me Avoid Washington State and Federal Estate Taxes?
Unlike many other states, Washington joins 16 other states and imposes its own estate taxes. Combined with federal estate taxes, this could cause concern for many residents – especially those approaching retirement and their twilight years. You may have heard that a trust can help avoid these estate taxes – but is there any… Read More »
Funding Options for Aging in Place in Washington State
Aging in place is a common goal for most seniors, but it could be surprisingly expensive. As you approach your twilight years, you might need increasing assistance for day-to-day needs. This might involve food delivery, cleaning services, medical treatments, safety renovations, and much more. Before you get too worried about paying for these expenses,… Read More »
Testamentary Trusts vs. Revocable Living Trusts in Spokane
At first glance, testamentary trusts and revocable living trusts may seem quite similar. If you’re assessing your estate planning options in Spokane, however, it is important to understand the subtle differences between various trusts. These slight differences may be beneficial or detrimental, depending on your unique circumstances. What exactly is the difference between a… Read More »
What Is Pre-Crisis Planning for Seniors in Spokane?
No one likes to think about what kinds of crises might lie ahead – but it always makes sense to be prepared. Seniors who engage in “pre-crisis planning” may find it easier to face uncertain futures with a degree of confidence. These types of plans can help not only seniors, but also their loved… Read More »
How Can Beneficiaries Communicate With Executors in Washington?
If you stand to inherit assets from a deceased loved one, you may need to interact with the executor of the Will. This might be someone you know personally, such as a close family member. However, it might also be someone whom you may not be as close to – and it could be… Read More »
Frequently Asked Questions About Washington Durable Powers of Attorney
In Washington estate planning, a durable power of attorney (DPA) is a critical document that can help protect your assets. A DPA enables you to appoint a family member, friend, or other trusted person to make financial decisions for you and your property. This can prove especially useful if you become incapacitated and are… Read More »
What Is the Difference Between a Washington Probate Estate and a Taxable Estate?
When it comes to the estate tax, the law makes a clear distinction between a “probate” estate and a “taxable” estate. Essentially, there are assets that may be part of a deceased individual’s taxable estate that are not part of their probate estate. It is therefore important to consider the potential size of your… Read More »
Does a Washington Power of Attorney Let You Represent Someone in Court?
A recent unpublished opinion from the Washington Court of Appeals, Stafford Healthcare SeaTac, LLC v. Page, illustrates why it is important to work with an experienced Spokane elder law attorney when it comes to long-term care planning. This sad case involved a dispute over an unpaid nursing home bill. According to the Court of… Read More »
The Role of Revocable Trusts in Washington Rental Property Ownership
Many Spokane Valley residents own their homes or rental properties through a revocable living trust. Such trusts provide a flexible tool for retaining control of real estate while avoiding the need for probate when the grantor the trust dies. Essentially, the property is transferred to the trust itself, and any successor trustee named in… Read More »
5 Things You Need to Know About Estate Taxes in 2025
As a new year–and a new presidential administration–approaches, it is important to take stock of where things stand with respect to the estate tax. While many Washingtonians will never have to worry about actually leaving an estate large enough to trigger a tax obligation, it is still worth noting the coming changes to the… Read More »