Estate Planning Vs. Advanced Estate Planning

Everyone has an estate

Everyone has an estate. Rich or poor, it doesnt matter. When you die, you leave behind an estate. For some, this can mean property, cash money, assets and more. For others it could be as simple as the $10 bill in their wallet and the clothes on their back. Either way, what you leave behind when you die is considered to be your estate.

Why plan? Well, even if youre just leaving behind the $10 bill in your wallet, who will inherit it? Do you have a spouse? Children? Is it theirs? Should it go to just one of them, or be split between them? This (quite simply) is what estate planning is all about. Estate planning determines how your money and assets (property both real and personal) will be distributed after your lifetime.

Who needs estate planning? While it is absolutely possible to die without planning your estate, I wouldnt say it is advisable. If you die without an estate plan, your family could face major legal issues and (possibly) bitter disputes. So in my opinion, everyone should do some form of estate planning. Your estate plan could include wills and trusts, life insurance, disability insurance, a living will, a pre- or post-nuptial agreement, long-term care insurance, power of attorney and more.

Why not just a will? Did you know that your heirs may need to file a petition to probate your estate even if you have a will? Basically, a will tells the world what youd like to have happen, but other items (like properly prepared and funded trusts) can provide the tools to make things happen, and help your heirs to avoid probate.

So, what is advanced estate planning? Advanced estate planning is generally something those with a very high net worth should consider. For example, if you are single and your net worth exceeds $1.5 million dollars, or if you are married and (as a couple) your net worth exceeds $3.5 million dollars, you should consider advanced estate planning. The main purpose of advanced estate planning is to reduce taxes. The use of unified credit, gifting strategies, trusts and more can help your heirs receive the highest benefits possible under federal and state laws.

Where do you begin? Whether you need basic or advanced estate planning, I would advise you to speak with qualified professionals. A Financial Advisor can refer you to a good estate planning attorney and a qualified tax professional, and lead a team effort to assist you in drafting your legal documents. Many financial professionals have relationships with attorneys and accountants, so the advisor you consult may be able to refer you to the right specialists.

by: Ishan Goradiya

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