Show your Family How Much you Care by Giving them Peace-of-Mind.
The most thoughtful thing you can do for your family, is plan for when you are no longer here.
Many people may think that they don't need to plan for their estate, either because they are young, healthy, or they simply don't want to think about it. But it’s an extremely important process, and though it can be emotional, the result is that your family will appreciate the love you’ve shown them by planning ahead of time.
How do I love thee?
You and your loved ones can all benefit financially and emotionally if you are prepared with a detailed estate plan before you become sick or pass away.
Financial Benefits - Estate planning has various financial benefits. It saves you and your loved ones from having to pay attorney's fees and court fees by avoiding probate. All of your last wishes will be overseen by a trustee in charge of your living trust instead of a judge distributing your property through probate. Your loved ones will also be able to reduce or avoid the 40% estate tax if you and your spouse properly plan for it, keeping far more of their inheritance for their own use, as you intended.
Document Your Last Wishes - Proper estate planning also ensures that your last wishes are documented and followed to the detail. Should you establish a living trust, you will be able to place a trustworthy and responsible individual or company in place as the trustee, allowing them to handle your property and wishes after your death. You might desire to draft a simple will, although this option still requires probate. In addition, establishing a proper medical directive provides you and your family with dignity at the end of your life, and documents your wishes for funeral or memorial services.
Provide for Your Loved Ones - Most importantly of all, establishing a living trust allows your loved ones to distribute everything in a matter of months instead of years through probate. Living trusts are private documents whereas Wills are public and must be probated. Proper estate planning ensures that your family, friends, and even your pets are properly cared for if you become incapacitated or at death. Don’t leave a mess for your family when proper estate planning is easily attainable.
Use your Thoughts to Create a PLAN!
At Mortensen & Reinheimer, PC, we are REAL PEOPLE with REAL SOLUTIONS. The idea may seem daunting and undesirable, but our attorneys are friendly and willing to guide you step by step throughout the process. We have more than 24 years of combined experience and are skilled in estate planning so that you are guaranteed the highest quality counsel and legal representation. Please call us today to set up an appointment to discuss your estate planning needs.