Austin-Irving Branch Library

Elmwood Park IL

Story Time at Gompers Park Nature Play Space

West Addison Branch Library

Arty Afternoon

Teen Book Club: On the Come Up 

Elmwood Park Public Library

Resume workshop & Interview practice

Once Upon a Storytime

West Belmont Branch Library

Adult Book Club: The Midnight Feast

Tween Hangout

American Girl Doll Book Club

Baird & Warner

JOIN&nbsp;THE&nbsp;FUN!!&nbsp;Get ready to lift your voice and move your body at this high-energy afternoon event celebrating the best women anthems of all time. This inclusive gathering creates a space for women to sing, dance, and network, with all guests ages 10 to 110 welcome to join the fun. Text Cathy at 773.315.7005 for more info

Local Event: Sing & Dance & Socialize: Women Celebrating Women

Cook County

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

Sing & Dance & Socialize: Women Celebrating Women

JOIN THE FUN!! Get ready to lift your voice and move your body at this high-energy afternoon event celebrating the best women...

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Forest Park

West Side

Park Ridge

DuPage County

David Giuliani

Elmhurst

North Center-Roscoe Village

Bucktown-Wicker Park

Lincoln Square

Niles-Morton Grove

Lakeview

Cook

Elmwood Park

Mission Ready: Estate Planning Tips for Veterans

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many overlook how military benefits intersect with real estate and estate planning. Whether you used a VA loan or are looking to pass your legacy to your children, here are critical steps to ensure your plan is as disciplined as your service. 1. The "Trust" Factor with VA Loans If you bought your home with a VA-backed loan, you can generally transfer it into a Living Trust without triggering a "due-on-sale" clause, provided it remains your primary residence. This allows your family to avoid probate—the long, expensive court process of proving ownership after you pass. 2. Protect Your Tax Exemptions Illinois offers significant property tax breaks for disabled veterans. However, these don't always "travel" automatically. If you move your home into a trust, ensure your attorney includes specific language that preserves your right to the homestead and veteran tax exemptions. Also, check if these exemptions are portable for a surviving spouse. 3. Update Your Beneficiaries A common mistake is updating a Will but forgetting the beneficiary forms on life insurance (VGLI) or a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). The Rule: A beneficiary form overrides a Will. If an old beneficiary is still listed on your policy, they will likely receive the payout regardless of what your Will says. 4. Secure Your DD214 In the military, if it isn’t in writing, it didn’t happen. Your family will need your DD214 to access almost every benefit, from burial honors to survivor pensions. Keep a digital and physical copy in a fireproof safe and ensure your executor knows the location. About the Author: Cathy Yanda is a USMC Veteran and a REALTOR® with Baird &amp; Warner in Oak Park. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) and Military Relocation Professional (MRP), she is dedicated to helping fellow veterans navigate the complexities of real estate and legacy planning.

Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River...

For many veterans, the home is the cornerstone of the American Dream they served to protect. But when it comes to "mission-readiness," many...

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Cathy Yanda | Baird & Warner | Oak Park & River Forest