Estate Planning Information

Estate planning encompasses the growth, conservation, and transfer of an individual’s wealth through the creation and maintenance of an “estate plan.”  The purpose of estate planning is to develop a strategy that will maintain the financial security of individuals through their lifetime and facilitate the intended transfer of their property and assets at death, while taking into consideration the unique circumstances of the family and the potential costs of different methods.

All too often, we hear:

  • "I'm too young to do estate planning."
  • "All my property is titled in joint tenancy with my spouse so I don't need a will."
  • "Estate planning is only for the super-rich."
  • "Estate planning is too complicated and expensive."
  • "Doesn't the government provide for that?"
  • "We did our wills right after we got married 30 years ago and see no need for further planning."

If you seek advice and guidance with regard to your estate planning needs, please view our website and search for a the type of member that meets your needs.  As an alternative, you can search for an Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) or Estate Planning Law Specialist (EPLS) designation holder in your area on the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils website.

Featured Articles

OPINION: Guest commentary — You can make a difference in your community through estate ...

As we recognize National Estate Planning Awareness Week (last week), we're thankful for the many highly-qualified local and regional professional ...

5 quirky IRA rules you never heard of

Here are five unusual quirks that all financial planners should know. ... Either conversion (the inherited plan funds or his own retirement accounts) will ...

Happy 100th birthday! Here's why you could end up with surprise taxes

This applies to those who purchased so-called permanent life insurance to address complex financial planning needs, including estate planning.

Are You Making These 4 Investing Mistakes?

If you have already started creating your estate plan, congratulations on taking an important first step that too many Americans continue to avoid.

MAKING CENTS: Excess retirement funds?

For many of us, having too much money in a retirement plan sounds like a dream come true. But for those who have done a great job saving ...