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Do I Need an Estate Plan?

You already have one.  Everyone has an estate plan!  It is just that if you did not create it, the government has created it for you.  Not everyone wants the government to create their plan.

What is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is an often misunderstood process.  Some people think it is only needed if you are very wealthy. Others think it is just about buying documents, like a will, trust, powers of attorney and health care documents.  Actually estate planning is an important part of life planning.  It is about identifying your needs, wants and goals, now, upon disability and at death, and then managing your affairs to satisfy your needs and achieve your wants and goals

Biography

It is not just for the wealthy, it is for everyone. It is not just about a handful of documents; it is about you and your family’s well being.

One of the best definitions we have come across for “estate planning” is this:

It’s a process that enables you to:

  • Control and protect your property while you are alive and well
  • Take care of yourself and loved ones if you become disabled or incapacitated
  • Give what you want
    • To whom you want
    • How you want
    • When you want
  • At the lowest possible overall cost to you and your loved ones

A well thought out estate plan addresses three very distinct time frames: present, disability and death.  It maintains control and flexibility during your life, provides clear instructions and a means to provide for you during any disability, and provides that the maximum amount of your property and values are passed on to who you choose at your death.

Creating the Estate Plan -- The Planning Process

We have developed a system and process for addressing our customers’ estate planning needs. In that way we are able to spend the maximum amount of time on the unique needs and situation of each of our customers. 

We often receive our customers from other advisors and in any event we encourage that all your advisors participate in a meaningful way in this very important process.  If there are other advisors involved, we may begin with a discussion of your situation with them to determine whether or not your family might benefit from our services.

Our process involves gathering, review, analysis, design and implementation. 

Depending on your situation — Foundation Planning, Estate Planning, Integrated Estate Planning, or Planning for Affluent Individuals and Families — we work with you to design an estate plan that is customized to satisfy your needs and goals, that provides you the ultimate protection, and ensures your family and loved ones will receive the benefit you intend.

Find out more about our planning process and the programs we offer.

Family Estate Planning

 

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