Imagine your loved ones struggling through a lengthy probate process, waiting months—or even years—to access the inheritance you intended for them. Now imagine the government significantly reducing that inheritance through taxes you didn't plan for. Fortunately, there’s a powerful tool to avoid these costly outcomes: a properly structured trust.
When crafting an estate plan, many people naturally focus on assets, property distribution, and financial security. While these elements are essential, your healthcare decisions and medical privacy require equal attention. A vital yet frequently overlooked part of your estate plan is the HIPAA authorization. Understanding why this document is necessary can protect...
Every business owner reaches a point where they need to consider the future of their company beyond their leadership. Whether preparing for retirement, moving on to new ventures, or simply wanting to ensure the business continues to thrive, having an exit strategy is essential.
While some owners choose to...
For many business owners, keeping the company within the family is the ideal succession plan. However, not all family businesses have the next generation ready—or willing—to take over. When internal succession isn’t an option, owners must explore alternative strategies to ensure the business continues to thrive.
One option...
Succession planning is crucial for business owners who wish to transfer their company to someone else. Whether you plan to keep the business in the family, promote from within, or sell to a third party, a comprehensive business succession plan will make the transition smoother and more profitable.
Having a succession plan in place is a critical part of ensuring your business will continue after you step down from running it. The first step in the succession planning process should involve determining your business’s fair market value.
Understanding Business Valuation in Succession Planning
A buy-sell agreement is a contract stating when and how business owners can buy out or sell a co-owner's share when the owner leaves the business. An effective buy-sell agreement should always include a plan to fund the ownership transition in the event of one of the owner's deaths, retirement, or...
When creating a buy-sell agreement, it’s important to consider the many tax considerations involved. Working with an experienced attorney can help you navigate the tax-related challenges of implementing a buy-sell agreement.
A buy-sell agreement is an important tool for business owners creating a business succession plan. If multiple...
Planning for the future can feel daunting for solo agers. Unlike traditional family setups, solo agers—those who may be single, childless, or without nearby relatives—face unique challenges when preparing for their later years.
While these challenges can seem complex, there are straightforward ways to ensure your wishes are honored...
Aging independently is rewarding, but it requires thoughtful planning to ensure your future remains secure and fulfilling. Estate planning is especially important for solo agers, as it can address unique concerns and provide a sense of control over your legacy, healthcare, and finances. This guide covers essential estate planning tips for solo...
