Estate planning is
the growth management and preservation of one’s assets, with provisions
for the most cost effective and least complicated transfer of those assets
to one’s heirs.
Estate planning is extremely important in order to avoid dying "intestate".
Dying intestate means dying without a will or other provisions such as a
trust that provides instructions for passing an estate to heirs. The
negative impact of poor estate planning can include probate, creditors,
the costly involvement of lawyers, and unnecessary taxation.
Proper estate planning may include some or all of the following:
- Control of assets during lifetime
- An updated will
- Right amount and type of life insurance
- Inter vivos and testamentary trusts where required
- Provision for favorite charities
- Continuation of business interests or business exit strategy
- Children’s and/or grandchildren’s education
- Providing instructions for care and management of assets if
incompetent
- Protection of assets from creditors
It is very important to educate yourself with professional advice from
someone experienced in estate planning, property and tax legislation. Our
financial planning professionals have the training and expertise to help
you design your plan, maintain your plan, and maximize your plan.
|