Illinois Guides
General Resources
These guides work no matter where you live:
Articles for Illinois
Alternatives to LegalZoom for Illinois Advance Directives
Compare LegalZoom alternatives for completing Illinois advance directives: free state forms, guided kits, Five Wishes, and estate attorneys. Pricing, …
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 a…
Alternatives to LegalZoom for Illinois Power of Attorney
Compare LegalZoom alternatives for Illinois POA documents: free state forms, guided kits, Nolo, and local attorneys. Pricing, Illinois-specific covera…
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.
Best Illinois Advance Directive Kit for Adult Children with Aging Parents
The best advance directive kit for adult children coordinating an aging parent's healthcare planning in Illinois. Witness rules, capacity timing, and …
Best Illinois Power of Attorney Kit for Adult Children with Aging Parents
The best POA kit for adult children setting up power of attorney for an aging parent in Illinois. Covers the capacity window, dual statutory forms, ba…
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 e…
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 …
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 …