Alternatives to LegalZoom for Illinois Estate Planning
Looking for alternatives to LegalZoom for your Illinois estate plan? Compare costs, IL-specific coverage, and which option handles the $4M cliff tax and TODI rules.
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All articles about Illinois Basic Estate Planning Kit.
Best Estate Planning Guide for Illinois Families Near the $4 Million Threshold
The best estate planning resource for Illinois families whose assets approach the $4M state estate tax cliff. Compare kits, attorneys, and platforms.
Credit Shelter Trust in Illinois: How Married Couples Save on the $4M Estate Tax
A credit shelter trust preserves both spouses' $4M Illinois estate tax exemptions. Learn how it works, when you need one, and the Illinois-only QTIP election.
Estate Planning for Blended Families in Illinois
Blended families face unique risks under Illinois intestacy and spousal rights laws. Learn how to protect biological children, stepchildren, and your surviving spouse.
Estate Planning in Illinois: What Every Homeowner Needs to Know
Illinois estate planning requires 5 core documents, a $4M tax threshold check, and TODI recording. Here's how to build a plan that actually works.
How Long Does Probate Take in Illinois?
Illinois probate takes 12-18 months for simple estates and 2+ years for contested ones. Learn the statutory deadlines, what causes delays, and how to speed it up.
How Much Does Probate Cost in Illinois?
Illinois probate costs include filing fees ($300-$479), attorney fees ($3,000-$7,000), bond premiums, and publication costs. Here's the full breakdown by county.
How to Create an Estate Plan in Illinois Without a Lawyer
Step-by-step guide to creating a legally valid estate plan in Illinois without hiring an attorney. Covers wills, POAs, TODIs, and common mistakes.
Illinois Estate Planning Kit vs Hiring an Attorney: Which Makes More Sense?
Compare DIY estate planning kits with hiring an Illinois estate attorney. Cost, scope, and when each option protects your family best.
Illinois Estate Tax Calculator: How to Estimate Your State Tax Bill
Calculate your Illinois estate tax liability with this step-by-step breakdown. Covers the $4M threshold, graduated rates, life insurance, and the non-portability trap.
Illinois Joint Tenancy: How Shared Property Ownership Affects Your Estate Plan
Joint tenancy in Illinois passes property automatically at death — but creates risks for asset protection, Medicaid, and estate tax planning. Learn the rules.
Illinois Will Requirements: How to Write a Legally Valid Will
Illinois requires two witnesses, a competent testator, and specific formalities. Learn the exact will requirements, witness rules, and common mistakes to avoid.
Intestate Succession in Illinois: What Happens If You Die Without a Will
Illinois intestacy law splits your estate by formula — spouse, children, parents, siblings. Learn the exact rules under 755 ILCS 5/2-1 and how to avoid them.
Revocable Living Trust in Illinois: Do You Need One?
A revocable living trust avoids Illinois probate and preserves privacy, but it's not for everyone. Compare trust vs. will and learn when each makes sense.
Transfer on Death Deed in Illinois: How to Record a TODI and Keep Real Estate Out of Probate
Illinois TODIs transfer real estate to heirs at death without probate — but only if recorded before death. Learn the execution, recording, and revocation rules.