If your will was signed before 2013 and you have a so-called by-pass estate tax saving trust that is no longer necessary, you really should update and simplify your will.
External events that cause reflection are good reminders to update estate planning documents.
Charitable giving comes in many forms. Some people donate annually to their favorite charities, while others may volunteer their time or professional services.
Most consumers are familiar with the beneficiary designation form they complete when opening an IRA or 401(k). The form designates who receives the asset, if the account owner dies. However, these forms can create confusion, unintended bequests and family turmoil, if not adequately monitored.
Planning for the end of your life can be intimidating. When you are a farmer, your business is not only your livelihood and your passion, but, often, it is also intermingled with your family life. For that reason, estate planning — arranging for the management of your assets once you die — is especially important for aging farmers.
Has a loved one named you their financial power of attorney? Are you ready to take on all the responsibilities that entails? Hopefully, you won’t be called into action anytime soon, but with the coronavirus pandemic continuing, it’s something to think about.
If you have children or are expecting one, you may also want to take the three big estate planning steps that we did.
Utilization of a testamentary trust for the surviving spouse is an excellent idea, whether the survivor is the husband or wife.
One of the most fundamental choices you can make as you’re thinking about how to pass your assets on to heirs, is whether you hold assets in a revocable trust or more simply give them via a will. Both approaches have advantages, although trusts can provide significantly more benefits.
It’s hard to imagine being stripped by a court of the right to make decisions about finances, medical care and other matters. It’s even harder to imagine that happening without representation or the advice from a lawyer.
