208-664-8980

1875 N. Lakewood Dr.
Suite 102
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

Estate

Why Everyone Needs an Estate Strategy

This is an Estate Strategy educational infographic with five numbered sections on a green background.This is an Estate Strategy educational infographic with five numbered sections on a green background.Section one covers Probate, and states that Probate is the legal process that wraps up a person’s legal and financial affairs after their death. Probate can be costly and easily take months or years, depending on the state. While no estate strategy can completely eliminate the risk of an extensive probate, managing the probate process may be possible with a valid will and assets that avoid probate.Section one covers Probate, and states that Probate is the legal process that wraps up a person’s legal and financial affairs after their death. Probate can be costly and easily take months or years, depending on the state. While no estate strategy can completely eliminate the risk of an extensive probate, managing the probate process may be possible with a valid will and assets that avoid probate.This section includes a list of assets that avoid probate, such as property held in a trust, Jointly held property that isn’t common property, Death benefits from insurance policies, Property given away before you die, Assets in a pay-on-death account, and Retirement accounts with a named beneficiary.This section includes a list of assets that avoid probate, such as property held in a trust, Jointly held property that isn’t common property, Death benefits from insurance policies, Property given away before you die, Assets in a pay-on-death account, and Retirement accounts with a named beneficiary.Section two explains Living Wills. A Living Will outlines instructions on how to handle difficult decisions regarding your estate. Despite the importance of this document, only 32% of Americans have one. The number one cited reason for not having a will is procrastination.Section two explains Living Wills. A Living Will outlines instructions on how to handle difficult decisions regarding your estate. Despite the importance of this document, only 32% of Americans have one. The number one cited reason for not having a will is procrastination.Section three discusses Tax Exemption Strategies, noting that in 2024, the estate and gift tax exemption is 13.61 million dollars. Potentially hundreds of thousands of additional American households can take advantage of these strategies, passing on some of or all their assets free of estate taxes. Less than 1out of every 1,000 estates will exceed the exemption.  Section three discusses Tax Exemption Strategies, noting that in 2024, the estate and gift tax exemption is 13.61 million dollars. Potentially hundreds of thousands of additional American households can take advantage of these strategies, passing on some of or all their assets free of estate taxes. Less than 1out of every 1,000 estates will exceed the exemption. Section four covers Living Trusts. These trusts are managed by a trustee and can help reduce estate taxes. Created and funded while you are alive, Living Trusts are composed of assets you choose to put into them. Managed by a trustee (usually you), the assets are structured to pass to a beneficiary, or beneficiaries, automatically upon your death, much like a will.Section four covers Living Trusts. These trusts are managed by a trustee and can help reduce estate taxes. Created and funded while you are alive, Living Trusts are composed of assets you choose to put into them. Managed by a trustee (usually you), the assets are structured to pass to a beneficiary, or beneficiaries, automatically upon your death, much like a will.Section five explains Power of Attorney, specifically durable power of attorney documents. These function as a written authorization empowering a person to execute personal and legal matters on your behalf. A good strategy may be to pick a person who either has some experience in these fields or has the necessary qualities to handle these decisions. This is often a spouse or adult child.Section five explains Power of Attorney, specifically durable power of attorney documents. These function as a written authorization empowering a person to execute personal and legal matters on your behalf. A good strategy may be to pick a person who either has some experience in these fields or has the necessary qualities to handle these decisions. This is often a spouse or adult child.The final portion lists the sources used in the creation of this infographic.The final portion lists the sources used in the creation of this infographic.
 

Related Content

What Is a 1035 Exchange?

What Is a 1035 Exchange?

1035 exchanges provide a way to trade-in an annuity contract or life insurance policy without triggering a tax liability.

The Financial Literacy Crisis

The Financial Literacy Crisis

Many Americans are operating their personal finances with only the barest minimum of knowledge.

Does Your Portfolio Fit Your Retirement Lifestyle?

Does Your Portfolio Fit Your Retirement Lifestyle?

Lifestyle considerations in creating your retirement portfolio.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

How Often Should You Update Your Estate Strategy?

Review your legacy approach regularly, particularly following significant life events or legislative updates.

Medicare At 65+

65 or older? It may be time to enroll in Medicare. Read to learn if you’re eligible.

The ABCs of Zero Coupon Bonds

Understanding some basic concepts may help you assess whether zero-coupon bonds have a place in your portfolio.

View all articles

Student Loan Refinance Calculator

Compare your current student loan terms to a potential refinance to see if it makes sense.

Rent vs Buy Calculator

Compare the long-term financial outcomes of renting versus buying a home.

How Long Will Your Money Last?

See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.

View all calculators

Safeguard Your Digital Estate

If you died, what would happen to your email archives, social profiles and online accounts?

Dog Bites and Homeowners Insurance

Reviewing coverage options is just one thing responsible pet parents can do to help look out for their dogs.

When Markets React

When markets shift, experienced investors stick to their strategy.

View all videos