Estate planning is the process of legally designating who will receive your assets and manage your affairs in the event of your death or incapacitation. The planning process includes bequeathing assets to heirs, making a plan to settle taxes, and designating an estate fiduciary. Most estate plans are set up with the assistance of a lawyer and financial advisor experienced in estate law.

An estate plan outlines how your assets will be managed and distributed upon your death. The plan should also outline the management of your financial obligations in case you become incapacitated. Assets that should be included in the plan include houses, land, vehicles, stocks, retirement plans, jewelry, life insurance, and debt.

Proper trust and will planning seeks to reduce estate taxes, preserve family wealth, protect minor beneficiaries, and protect adult beneficiaries from outside influences, creditor problems, and unwise decisions.

Every estate plan should include a will, regardless of your amount of wealth. Other necessary estate planning steps include:

• Establishing trust accounts to limit estate taxes
  
• Naming a guardian for children under age 18
  
• Naming an estate executor
  
• Setting up a durable power of attorney document
  
• Establishing beneficiaries on insurance and retirement accounts
  

Most estate professionals recommend creating a will once you have children, purchase a home, or get married.

Don’t wait any longer to protect your family. Seek financial confidence by creating an estate plan. Contact Secure Planning Group, LLC today for advice. We can help with trusts, assets planning, fiduciary services, charitable giving, and custodial services.

This information is not intended to be a substitute for individualized legal advice. Please consult your legal advisor regarding your specific situation.

LPL Financial Representatives offer access to Trust Services through The Private Trust Company N.A., an affiliate of LPL Financial.