Marcia L. Campbell, CPA

04/23/2025

What’s the difference between an executor and a personal representative?

If you’ve recently lost someone or are helping a loved one manage an estate, these terms can feel confusing and overwhelming. The good news? You don’t have to figure it out alone.

We’re here to offer clarity during difficult times. In California, “executor” and “personal representative” are often used interchangeably—but the details matter, especially when settling a loved one’s affairs with care and compliance.

Here's the difference between these two roles, so you can feel more confident and supported as you move forward:

https://mcampbellcpa.com/whats-the-difference-between-an-executor-and-personal-representative/

04/22/2025

✍️ Thinking of updating your will? You’re not alone, and it’s an important step to ensure your wishes are clearly documented.

In California, creating a new will can override an old one, but only if it’s done correctly. Whether you're updating after a major life event or simply revisiting your estate plan, understanding how new and old wills interact is key to avoiding confusion or legal disputes later.

📘 Read our latest article to learn how to protect your legacy with confidence:
👉 https://mcampbellcpa.com/does-a-new-will-override-an-old-will-in-california

💬 Share this with someone you care about—planning ahead is one of the greatest gifts we can give our families.

Think a new will automatically cancels the old one? Not always. Learn what really happens—and how to avoid costly probate mistakes.

04/18/2025

📝 Wondering if a new will overrides an old one in California? You’re not alone.

Grief and estate planning often go hand-in-hand, and questions about wills can surface at the most emotional times.

In California, a new will can revoke a previous one—but only if it’s properly executed. If you’re unsure which version is legally valid or how to honor your loved one’s final wishes, now is the time to get clarity and peace of mind.

💬 We’re here to help you navigate the legal process with care, compassion, and accuracy.

📖 Read the full article to learn what happens when multiple wills exist:
👉 https://mcampbellcpa.com/does-a-new-will-override-an-old-will-in-california/

04/17/2025

🏡 Thinking About the Future? Let’s Talk About Your Home.

Putting your house in a trust isn’t just a legal formality—it’s a thoughtful step toward protecting your legacy and easing the burden on your loved ones.

Whether you're planning ahead for probate avoidance or ensuring a smooth transfer of ownership, a living trust can provide clarity, privacy, and peace of mind. In our latest article, we walk you through what it means to place your home in a trust, how the process works, and what it can mean for your estate plan.

👉 Read more: https://mcampbellcpa.com/how-to-put-your-house-in-a-trust/

📌 Estate planning is an act of love. We're here to help you do it right

04/15/2025

🕊️ What happens to your loved one's bank account if they pass without a will in California?

It's a question no one wants to ask, but one that many families face.

As professionals who regularly help guide families through difficult transitions, we've seen how the absence of an estate plan can leave loved ones with more than just grief. It can leave them with uncertainty, delays, and unintended legal consequences.

In California, when someone dies without a will, their assets (including bank accounts) may be subject to the state's intestate succession laws. This means the court—not your family—decides who inherits what. If the account was solely in their name, even accessing funds to cover funeral costs can require a court process.

If you're unsure how these rules apply to your situation or want to prevent this from happening to your family, we're here to help. Because of peace of mind starts with planning ahead. Read our blog to learn everything you need in this situation:

https://mcampbellcpa.com/what-happens-to-a-bank-account-when-someone-dies-without-a-will-in-california/

04/10/2025

When it comes to estate planning, it's important to understand the roles of an Executor and a Personal Representative. Though often used interchangeably, these titles can carry different legal implications depending on your state.

In California, a Personal Representative is appointed by the court to administer the estate, while an Executor is typically named in a will. Both roles are vital in ensuring your wishes are respected and your estate is handled smoothly, but choosing the right person for the task is key.

If you're in the process of planning your estate, let us help guide you through these decisions and ensure everything is set up properly for your peace of mind and your loved ones' future. Learn more about these roles and how they impact your estate planning here:

https://mcampbellcpa.com/whats-the-difference-between-an-executor-and-personal-representative/

04/08/2025

Did you know a trust can be a game-changer for your child's future?

As we plan for retirement, one of the most thoughtful gifts we can give our children is the gift of security, something that lasts long after we’re gone. But it’s not just about leaving assets; it’s about ensuring they’re protected, managed wisely, and distributed according to your wishes. That’s where a trust comes in!

Setting up a trust can offer peace of mind, knowing that your child’s inheritance is carefully managed, whether it’s for education, medical needs, or other life goals. And it can even help avoid the headaches of probate court.

If you’ve been considering the best way to leave a lasting legacy for your child, a trust might be precisely what you need. Learn more about how trust funds work and why they might be a smart move for your family’s future in my latest blog

https://mcampbellcpa.com/why-should-i-consider-setting-up-a-trust-fund-for-my-child/

04/04/2025

Can a trustee withdraw money from an irrevocable trust? The answer might not be as simple as you think.

An irrevocable trust offers strong protection for assets, but what happens when the trustee needs to access the funds? Unlike revocable trusts, an irrevocable trust limits a trustee’s ability to make changes or withdrawals without following specific guidelines set by the trust agreement.

Understanding these rules is crucial for both trustees and beneficiaries. If you’re managing an irrevocable trust or are a beneficiary wondering about access to funds, knowing your rights and responsibilities can help prevent misunderstandings and conflicts.

Let’s dive into the details of how irrevocable trusts work and what it means for withdrawals in my latest blog:

Rules for who can withdraw money from an irrevocable trust depend on the type of trust account. Learn who has the authority to withdraw funds from trusts.

04/03/2025

Does an executor have to show accounting to beneficiaries? The answer might surprise you.

When it comes to settling an estate, transparency is key, but does an executor need to share a full accounting with the beneficiaries? While not always required by law, providing clear, detailed accounting can prevent confusion, disputes, and potential legal issues.

As an executor, it’s not just about carrying out the will; it’s about ensuring trust and clarity for those you’re serving. For beneficiaries, knowing how the estate is managed can provide peace of mind and a smoother transition.

If you’re an executor or a beneficiary, understanding your rights and responsibilities can make a world of difference.

Let’s talk about what an executor’s obligations are and how to ensure a fair process for everyone involved. Get all the details in my latest blog post:

https://mcampbellcpa.com/does-an-executor-have-to-show-accounting-to-beneficiaries/

04/02/2025

Could a trust shield your assets from a lawsuit? The short answer is yes. But there’s more to it than that.

Life is unpredictable, and protecting what you’ve worked hard for is likely a top priority. Whether you’re a business owner, a homeowner, or simply want to safeguard your personal assets, a trust can offer an added layer of protection, ensuring your hard-earned wealth stays where it belongs: safe and secure for you and your family.

It’s not just about protecting property; it’s about peace of mind knowing that your future is safeguarded. Let’s discuss how to structure your trust to protect your assets effectively:

https://mcampbellcpa.com/can-a-trust-protect-assets-from-a-lawsuit/

04/01/2025

Did you know a trust can be a game-changer for your child's future?

As we plan for retirement, one of the most thoughtful gifts we can give our children is the gift of security, something that lasts long after we’re gone. But it’s not just about leaving assets; it’s about ensuring they’re protected, managed wisely, and distributed according to your wishes. That’s where a trust comes in!

Setting up a trust can offer peace of mind, knowing that your child’s inheritance is carefully managed, whether it’s for education, medical needs, or other life goals. And it can even help avoid the headaches of probate court.

If you’ve been considering the best way to leave a lasting legacy for your child, a trust might be precisely what you need. Learn more about how trust funds work and why they might be a smart move for your family’s future in my latest blog:

https://mcampbellcpa.com/why-should-i-consider-setting-up-a-trust-fund-for-my-child/

03/27/2025

What happens to a trust when the trustee dies in California? Understanding this crucial detail can prevent complications and ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities.

We are here to break down what steps need to be taken when a trustee passes away, including how to manage and transfer the duties to a successor trustee. Learn how to keep your trust intact and ensure your loved ones are taken care of, even in the event of the unexpected.

If you're a trustee or beneficiary, this article contains essential information for maintaining the trust’s integrity and protecting the estate:

https://mcampbellcpa.com/what-happens-to-a-trust-when-the-trustee-dies-in-california/