A TRUST VS. A WILL
KNOW WHICH IS BETTER FOR YOU
AVOIDING PROBATE There are several benefits you can gain by choosing a trust.
• Your assets are instantly available to your family after your death. Your family can access your property immediately, using it to pay taxes, expenses, and debts without waiting on the probate court’s approval.
When you start thinking about what will happen to your assets after you’ve passed away, it’s important to consider setting up a will or a trust. During the estate-planning process, you’ll have to choose one or the other to protect your assets and loved ones after you pass. On the surface, it is sometimes difficult to determine the difference between the two, but a trust will generally give you more options than you’d have with a will. THE DIFFERENCE A last will and testament goes into effect after you’ve passed away. It’s a written and signed document that records your last wishes for how your property and finances are to be distributed. When you’re gone, your possessions are given to the people indicated in the will through a court process called probate. When you decide to use a living trust, your loved ones can avoid the probate process entirely. Once the trust is in place, the trustee becomes the legal owner of the real property that you put into it, which means court involvement is not needed.
• If you have a child, grandchild, or a dependent with special needs, a trust can provide for them throughout their lives.
• Your privacy will be protected through a trust. Probate proceedings are public records. If you own real property, mineral rights, or investment accounts, there will be a case filed with the county court, and documents associated with the case can become available online. • A living trust gives you control over your property if you become disabled or incapacitated. A will does not go into effect until you pass away. Therefore, it cannot protect you while you’re still alive. Without a trust, your care could end up being dictated by the court, and the proceedings could become public record. If you’re planning an estate in Oklahoma, it’s crucial that you speak to an attorney to ensure your wishes are honored after your death. Call our offices today to learn more about your options and which choice is best for you.
MEME ME
PEANUT BUTTER AND BERRY FRENCH TOAST
INSTRUCTIONS
INGREDIENTS
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8 slices brioche, 1/2-inch thick
1. On a large baking sheet lined with wax paper, place 4 slices of brioche and spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on each. Cover with remaining slices, creating sandwiches. 2. In a pie plate, beat eggs with cream and vanilla. In another, coarsely crush the cornflakes. 3. Lightly soak sandwiches in the egg mixture, then dredge in cornflakes, pressing to adhere. Return to baking sheet. 4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon butter. Once melted and up to temperature, add sandwiches, cooking on one side until golden and crisp, about 2–3 minutes. 5. Return sandwiches to baking sheet, add remaining butter, and repeat on other side. 6. Top sandwiches with berries, sprinkle with powdered sugar, and serve with maple syrup.
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1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
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2 large eggs
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1/8 cup heavy cream
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2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
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2 cups cornflakes
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter
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2 cups mixed berries
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Powdered sugar, to sprinkle
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Maple syrup, for serving
Inspired by Delish
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