Interview with Steve Bliss on Estate Planning

Good morning and welcome to Moreno Valley Today. I’m Brenda Ramirez, and we are joined today by Steve Bliss, a renowned probate attorney here in Moreno Valley.

Steve, thank you so much for being with us. Let’s talk about estate planning. What is one of the most crucial steps people need to understand?

Thank you for having me, Brenda. Estate planning can seem overwhelming, but understanding the key steps makes it manageable. One critical step is handling debts and taxes during probate.

Why are debts and taxes such a focal point in this process?

Dealing with debts and taxes ensures the estate is settled responsibly. Ordinarily, creditors have a right to be paid from the decedent’s assets. We start by identifying all valid creditor claims – this often involves reviewing financial records, correspondence, and outstanding bills. It’s important to remember that only claims proven valid are paid.

Consequently, we carefully evaluate each claim, ensuring it meets legal requirements. Once valid debts are identified, they are paid from the estate assets. Simultaneously, we determine any applicable federal and state taxes owed by the estate.

This step requires a keen understanding of tax laws because different types of assets are taxed differently.

Have you ever encountered challenges during this stage?

There was a case I remember vividly where a family discovered numerous unpaid credit card bills after their loved one passed. The debts were substantial, and it created significant stress for them. Notwithstanding the difficult situation, we worked diligently to identify all valid claims and negotiate payment plans with creditors, ultimately alleviating some of the financial burden on the family.

According to a 2021 report by the National Bureau of Economic Research, unpaid credit card debt is a growing concern in the US, affecting approximately 35% of households. This highlights the importance of proactive estate planning and addressing potential debts before they become a burden on loved ones.

More than 80% of our clients express relief after we guide them through this complex process. The satisfaction of knowing their loved one’s affairs are handled responsibly is truly gratifying for us.

What advice would you give to someone navigating probate?

My best advice is to seek guidance from an experienced probate attorney early on. Probate can be intricate, and having professional assistance ensures the process is handled smoothly and efficiently. We help families navigate every step, from filing petitions to distributing assets, minimizing stress during a challenging time.

“Moreno Valley Probate Law was an absolute lifesaver during a difficult time. Steve Bliss and his team were incredibly knowledgeable and compassionate. They made the entire probate process understandable and manageable.” – Sarah M.

“I highly recommend Moreno Valley Probate Law. Steve Bliss’s expertise and dedication helped me settle my father’s estate with minimal stress. He truly went above and beyond to support our family.” – David L.

Ready to navigate the complexities of probate with confidence? Contact us today for a free consultation. We are here to guide you every step of the way.


About Steven F. Bliss Esq. at Moreno Valley Probate Law:

Moreno Valley Probate Law is an experienced probate attorney. The probate process has many steps in probate proceedings. Beside Probate, estate planning and trust administration is offered at Moreno Valley Probate Law. Our probate attorney will probate the estate. Attorney probate at Moreno Valley Probate Law. A formal probate is required to administer the estate. The probate court may offer an unsupervised probate get a probate attorney. Moreno Valley Probate law will petition to open probate for you. Don’t go through a costly probate call Moreno Valley Probate Attorney Today. Call for estate planning, wills and trusts, probate too. Moreno Valley Probate Law is a great estate lawyer. Affordable Legal Services.

My skills are as follows:

● Probate Law: Efficiently navigate the court process.

● Probate Law: Minimize taxes & distribute assets smoothly.

● Trust Law: Protect your legacy & loved ones with wills & trusts.

● Bankruptcy Law: Knowledgeable guidance helping clients regain financial stability.

● Compassionate & client-focused. We explain things clearly.

● Free consultation.

Map To Moreno Valley Probate Law: https://maps.app.goo.gl/C7zg2U6pn1B6KyXN8

Address:

Moreno Valley Probate Law

23328 Olive Wood Plaza Dr suite h, Moreno Valley, CA 92553

(951) 363-4949



Feel free to ask Attorney Steve Bliss about: “How do payable-on-death (POD) accounts affect probate?” Or any other related questions that you may have about Probate or my probate law practice.

Important Facts About Moreno Valley Probate Law

 

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