Trust and Estate Planning

Let your worrying become the thinking & planning for your future. No matter what your net worth, it is important to have a basic estate plan to ensure you and your family’s financial goals are met after a passing. An estate plan may include a will, power of attorney, a health-care proxy, (medical power of attorney) and for some, a trust. Having these instruments in place is key to paying bills, managing investments, or making financial decisions in the event a health crisis leaves you unable to handle the business of your life. The person that is empowered to sign your name is obligated to be your fiduciary – meaning they must act in your best financial interest and in accordance with your wishes.

What is a Trust?

A trust is merely a contract, typically, a written contract, between the person who formed the trust, called the “Grantor,” and the Trustee.

A Revocable Living Trust – Also simply called a living trust, has become a widely used estate-planning tool, partly for the purpose of avoiding probate. When a Grantor sets up a “revocable living trust” for his or her benefit, he or she typically also serves as the initial Trustee. After the Grantor dies, the trust becomes irrevocable, and a named successor steps in to serve as Trustee. The successor Trustee must hold or distribute the trust property for the named beneficiaries and in accordance with the instructions set forth in the trust agreement.

Testamentary Trust – In some instances, such as when one of the beneficiaries is a minor or is disabled, it may be recommended that a client have a Testamentary Trust drafted into the will.

“Not only is a trust is the most flexible vehicle for individuals to ensure their estate is cared for, it’s also a way to care for family.” – Brian Ades, (SRES) Trust and Estates Specialist

Estate Planning

We can help you in finding the right Trust and Estate services to help protect you and your family’s assets.