What Steps Lead to an Effective Estate Plan?

Do you have an estate plan? A lot of people don’t, for a lot of different reasons. Some people would rather not discuss their death under any circumstances, other people think they are too young to worry about an estate plan, while others just don’t know, or aren’t, sure where to begin. However, it’s a good idea for everyone to have an estate plan in place; and for those who already have one, it’s a good idea to review it often.
A good estate plan consists of several things, but every estate plan is a little different according to each individual’s circumstances. However, there are some aspects that are consistent with every effective estate plan. Let’s take a look at a few of them.
- Be sure you determine who will be in charge of your estate and your affairs should become unable to do so.
- It’s always a good idea to set things up to avoid probate both in this life and for your heirs when you die. Trusts can help you do this.
- Make sure to take care of your children, including children from a first marriage if you have divorced and remarried.
- Protect the assets that your heirs will inherit from lawsuits, divorces and high taxes.
- Be sure to leave provisions and assets for any children or grandchildren with special needs.
These are just a few of the important things to keep in mind when planning your estate. If you have more questions about estate planning, especially as it pertains to your taxes, then please contact GROCO today at 1-877-CPA-2006. We can help answer your questions and get you prepared for the future. Click here to learn more.
Invest QSBS exclusion
Invest QSBS exclusion Updated: 1/23/2013 The FTB issued Notice 2012-03 on December 21, 2012. The Notice states that the Court of Appeal’s holding in Cutler v. Franchise Tax Board (2012) 208 Cal. App. 4th 1247, that the qualified small business stock exclusion and deferral statutes determined that the qualified small business stock statues–California Revenue and…
IRS Representing Yourself
IRS Representing Yourself So you are under audit with the IRS or the Franchise Tax Board. Thinking about representing yourself. I suggest that you think again. As a former IRS agent, some of the easiest adjustments came from individuals representing themselves. Simply put, I would ask questions and then listen to responses. Within the first…
New Ethics Rules Mean Some CEOs Will Be Hunting for a New CPA
New Ethics Rules Mean Some CEOs Will Be Hunting for a New CPA View in PDF Format (San Jose Business Journal) The relationship between a chief executive and his accountant is an extremely important one. An outside accountant can be one of your most trusted business advisors and a key to your success. That’s one…
Tax Medical Deductions
Tax Medical Deductions April 15th is almost here and if you are owing tax it may pay to take a second look at that return to see if you claimed all medical deductions you are entitled to. Your diligence in keeping track of expenses will pay off. IRS Publication 502 has a complete listing of…