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.

Posted in

When Is the Best Time to Exercise Those Stock Options?

We hear about stock options all the time in the news. It seems like anytime a big company is involved in some sort of financial transaction the term “stock options” is thrown around at some point. First off, stock options are an option given to a person, usually an employee, to purchase stock in a…

Could a Yacht Be Considered Your Second Home?

They say that a home is where the heart is. However, when it comes to a second home, it can be where your heart is, or just about anywhere else, as far as the IRS is concerned. In fact, not only can a second home be just about anywhere, it can actually be just about…

How Long Do I Need to Keep My Tax Records?

How Long Do I Need to Keep My Tax Records?

How Long Do I Need to Keep My Tax Records? April 15 is one of the most dreaded days of the year for many people, with the possible exception of accountants. However, what happens when all the hoopla of April 15 passes as people wake up on April 16 and go on with the rest…

India Teaming Up With United States in Joint Effort to Find Hidden Cash

India is reportedly going after so called “black money” which Indian citizens who are living abroad, are apparently hiding in offshore accounts, including here in the United States. According to reports, the Indian Government believes that as much as $350 billion is hiding in unreported bank accounts and other financial institutions. India is already gathering…