He who loses wealth loses much; he who loses a friend loses more; but he that loses his courage loses all.

– Miguel De Cervantes

While the scope of the Haitian tragedy is very different, “mopping up” after a family tragedy can be just as devastating.

Which is why, simply put, it pays to be prepared.

Yes, there have been significant estate tax changes this year–but did you know that estate planning is *much* more than just avoiding the “estate tax”?

In fact, the great majority of our clients aren’t in the wealth category affected by the estate tax legislation. But that doesn’t mean that estate planning shouldn’t be sought. You’ll see what I mean below.

(Oh, and by the way–next week, I’ll return to my surprisingly popular theme re: mistakes made during tax season. Thanks for your nice feedback!)

Let me know your thoughts…and, of course, if you’d like to talk this over with us we DO have some open appointments for now. That will quickly change, however.

“Real World” Personal Strategy

Part 2: Common Myths About Estate Planning

A few weeks ago, I wrote about these common myths–still held by the majority of Americans.

In fact, as of this writing, it’s a fact that almost 60% of Americans don’t have a basic will, and that’s a big problem.

Much of the reason for this is because of misconceptions about estate planning, and I dealt with two already:

Myth 1. Only rich people prepare estate plans.

Myth 2. Everything goes to your spouse, if something happens.

Well, I’ve got three more for you to chew on, and dispense with.

Myth 3. After I create my will or living trust, there’s nothing else to think about.

Well, if you follow this line of thinking, it could lead to a lot of problems. For instance, once you set up a trust, you need to re-title the assets you want to transfer to the trust. Otherwise, the trust doesn’t help a thing.

On top of that, families need to periodically update their will or trust to reflect major life events, such as a divorce or the birth of a child. You’ll also want to revisit your estate plan if you move to another state.

In fact, it’s a good idea to meet with us every 3 or 4 years to make sure your plan is fully up-to-date. (Which, incidentally, we provide free to certain clients.  Ask us about that.)

Myth 4. If I have a will, my estate automatically won’t go through probate.

Well, again–that’s not the case. In fact, ALL wills are subject to “probate”.  This is a process in which a court determines whether the document is actually valid and ensures that relatives and creditors are notified. This process can take several months and drain thousands of dollars from your estate.

So here’s one way to avoid that entirely–create that living trust. Essentially, a living trust is a legal document you create which holds property (such as brokerage accounts and real estate). When you die or are incapacitated, the property is smoothly transferred to your beneficiaries. This transfer occurs outside of the probate process, which saves a TON of hassle.

Not everyone needs one of these documents, but it’s something which you can’t paint over with a broad brush.   This is why it’s important to walk with a competent guide on these matters.

By the way, if you own property in more than one state, a living trust is a no-brainer. Going through probate in multiple states is a nightmare.

Another advantage to a living trust is privacy. A will is a public document, and anyone can come to the probate hearing to see if any fights break out. Living trusts aren’t published in any courthouse, so people can’t gain easy access to them. That’s quite nice.

Myth 5. I could be held responsible for a deceased parent’s debts.

No, you’re not responsible for credit card debts from your parents.

In general, children aren’t responsible for a deceased parent’s debts, and in some cases spouses are often exempt as well. Again…you can’t paint it with a broad brush. But as a general rule, the estate is responsible for paying debts. If there isn’t enough in the estate to cover the amount owed, the debts usually go unpaid.

I hope all this helps.

To your family’s financial and emotional peace…