Maywood-Melrose Park-Broadview 89

Maywood IL

Athletic Summer Camp â Session 1

River Forest Public Library

Teen Take & Makes (Grades 5-12)

FDN Finance Committee meeting

Tuesday Tales (Ages 0-6)

Book Buddies

Teen Tasters (Grades 5-8)

Craft and Chat

Resurrected Life Church International at Cornerstone Church, 171 N. Cuyler, Oak Park, IL 60302

Join us for a community screening of Shoutin' Hallelujah: A Journey of Healing, a powerful documentary produced by Mattimex Productions, LLC. Through personal stories, faith, and expert insight, the film explores the impact of father absence and the possibilities of hope, healing, and restoration. A live panel discussion and audience Q&amp;A will follow the screening. Light hors d'oeuvres will be served. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome.

Local Event: Community Documentary Screening of "Shoutin' Hallelujah: A Journey of Healing"

Cook County

Oak Park-River Forest

Illinois

Community Documentary Screening of "Shoutin'...

Join us for a community screening of Shoutin' Hallelujah: A Journey of Healing, a powerful documentary produced by Mattimex...

Community Documentary Screening of "Shoutin' Hallelujah: A Journey of Healing"

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Forest Park

West Side

DuPage County

David Giuliani

Elmhurst

La Grange

Western Springs

Oak Brook

Hinsdale-Clarendon Hills

Bucktown-Wicker Park

Park Ridge

Cook

Maywood

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