Article

The ABC's of Estate Planning

The ABC’s of Estate Planning

There is a common misconception that estate planning is something only the affluent need to do before they die. However, estate planning is important for everyone so that a court doesn’t end up making decisions about your assets and your heirs for you. By taking these steps now, you can help insure that your intentions will be followed and that provisions will be made for your loved ones when you are gone.

December 8, 2022
The ABC’s of Estate Planning
Important Disclosure: Content on our website and in our newsletters is for informational purposes only. The information provided may (or may not) directly apply to your situation. We recommend that readers work directly with a professional advisor when making decisions in the context of their specific situation.

Estate planning is important for everyone, regardless of income level or net worth. Planning for the disposition of assets upon your death can provide benefits to all the parties involved.

The greatest benefit may be in the knowledge that your wishes will be fulfilled. Naming your heirs, and relieving them of unnecessary expenses and stress by designating which assets they will receive, is preferable to having a court make such decisions for you.

In addition to designating your heirs, the estate planning process may include developing strategies to protect your assets, such as establishing a trust. Proper planning can help ensure that your assets go to the people you choose, and in some cases, it can help minimize taxes. An estate plan can also include advance directives to be carried out during your lifetime. For example, a durable power of attorney grants authority to another person to make legal and financial decisions on your behalf, in the event of your mental incapacity; a health care proxy grants authority to a person you choose to make health care decisions for you if you become unable to express your wishes; and a living will generally allows you to state your preferences regarding the giving or withholding of life-sustaining medical treatment.

Put It in Writing

A will is the basis of any estate plan. In drawing up your will, obtain the guidance of a qualified professional. Although you may think you can do it yourself, an estate planning professional has the experience to ask questions you may not have considered. For instance, would your minor children or grandchildren be able to manage an inheritance? Would you want your children’s spouses included in your estate? If your estate were affected by a divorce or the death of a child, how might your wishes for the distribution of your assets change?

Name Names

The first name to settle on is that of your executor, who will be appointed to administer your estate. Next, consider the beneficiary or beneficiaries of your insurance policies. Beneficiaries and contingent beneficiaries of assets in retirement accounts such as pensions, 401(k) plans, and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs), are kept on record with the retirement plan administrator, and these nominations take precedence over your will. Retirement assets pass directly to the beneficiaries, bypassing probate court, unless the executor of the estate is named.

What about Estate Taxes?

Assets transferred to a spouse will not be subject to estate taxes, regardless of value. However, transfers to other beneficiaries, such as children, may be subject to Federal estate taxes if they exceed the applicable exclusion amount.

Certain vehicles can be used to fund the payment of estate taxes, such as life insurance policies and trusts. For high-value estates, a gifting program is often used to reduce the value of the estate, thereby minimizing taxes. For specific guidance, be sure to consult your financial advisor.

Regardless of your net worth, take steps now to help ensure that your intentions will be followed as directed, and that provisions will be made for your loved ones.

Other content you may like

  • Is The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Too Pessimistic?

    April 15, 2025
    What is happening with the latest economic data? Both the hard and soft data have been softening. Do you know the difference? What does this mean for our economic outlook at home? Let’s take a look at the GDP, inflation and durable goods, as well as consumer sentiment.
    Read this Article
  • a Stronger Dollar Has Investing Implications

    A Stronger Dollar Has Investing Implications

    October 10, 2022
    World currency fluctuations mean more than calculating your travel costs. Exporters win or lose every time currency rates fluctuate, affecting corporations and your portfolio. Here’s a brief overview of how that may look in global markets, how a strong dollar may affect U.S. exports, and the pros and cons of international investing.
    Read this Article
  • Tips for Women to Build Financial Independence

    Tips for Women to Build Financial Independence

    March 8, 2021
    Every woman needs to balance her financial past with her financial future. Here are some tips to help you with the management of your personal finances so you can look towards the future and start building financial independence.
    Read this Article
  • Is Your Retirement Ship Stuck in the Suez Canal?

    Is Your Retirement-Ship Stuck in the Suez Canal?

    August 18, 2021
    Do you aspire to retirement goals that are so big you feel stuck? You might be able to relate to one of the largest container ships in the world that was stuck in the Suez Canal, costing $15 million a day in lost revenues. Here’s a basic list of must-dos for 40 and 50 year old captains to help unstick your Retirement-Ship so that you might see smoother sailing.
    Read this Article
  • The link you have selected is located on another server. The linked site contains information that has been created, published, maintained, or otherwise posted by institutions or organizations independent of this organization. We do not endorse, approve, certify, or control any linked websites, their sponsors, or any of their policies, activities, products, or services. We do not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the information contained therein. Visitors to any linked websites should not use or rely on the information contained therein until they have consulted with an independent financial professional. Please click “Continue to Link” to leave this website and proceed to the selected site.
    phone-handset