Probate is the first step taken to manage the estate of a deceased person and distribute assets to beneficiaries. When a person dies, the custodian of the will must bring the will to the probate court or executor named in the will within 30 days of the testator's death. One of the first steps you should take in the estate planning process is an in-depth evaluation of all financial holdings. A full and comprehensive assessment helps you get a complete picture of your wealth and helps you develop the best plan for your future and the future of your loved ones.
This process also allows you to identify areas for improvement. You may be able to consolidate accounts or modify your investment strategy. These measures can save you money by avoiding unnecessary fees and presenting new opportunities for wealth management. Account consolidation can also facilitate the distribution of your assets in the event of death.
Many people think they don't have enough assets to create an estate plan. However, it is essential to remember that your wealth includes everything you own. You might be surprised at how many assets you have. Therefore, the first step in basic estate planning should be to make an inventory of your tangible and intangible belongings.
An example of tangible ownership would be your home or real estate, and an intangible property would be your savings account. Once you count all your belongings, you'll need to estimate their value. You can do this through recent home appraisals and financial account statements. If you work with an attorney on your estate plan, show them the payee forms you have filled out in the past; you may find some surprises.
But to use this strategy, the wife must file a tax return on the husband's estate, even if there are no taxes due. Also, be sure to find out if your state has inheritance and estate taxes that could also affect your estate; some states have a lower threshold amount than federal estate taxes. Start by getting referrals to experienced estate planning attorneys from your accountant or financial planner, or check the websites of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel and the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys to find estate planning specialists in your area. A key component of estate planning is to protect your assets for the heirs and your charitable legacy by minimizing expenses and covering wealth taxes while still meeting your objectives.
In your will, you name an executor who will have the power and responsibility to pay your debts and distribute the rest of your estate according to your wishes. If you have young children or own a home, or you may owe significant debts or estate taxes when you die, life insurance may be a good idea. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you understand your options and choose the most appropriate way to manage credit accounts while mitigating negative impacts on credit rating. Estate planning doesn't have to be complicated, especially if you follow the 11-step estate planning checklist below to prepare your end-of-life documents.
But even if you create a living trust, a will should still be the cornerstone of your estate plan if you have minor children, because you also use it to appoint a guardian for them. Estate planning is the process of designating who will receive your assets in the event of death or disability. A well-designed plan can help you avoid disputes that may arise and can keep details about your family's financial matters private. Your executor will remember you most fondly if you organize your estate planning documents and financial records and store them in a safe but accessible place.
It would also specifically address the care and income of children or family members with special needs that must be carefully planned to avoid jeopardizing eligibility for government benefits. .
