Create Your Own Estate Plan for Peace of Mind & Security

Have you put off planning your estate? With NCH, it’s easy and can help ease the burden on your family in the event of your passing.

Will and estate planning is arranging one’s affairs for when they pass away. Partnering with our in-house, independent law firm, NCH provides various estate planning options, from irrevocable living trusts to multi-generational dynasty trusts.

There are many benefits of estate planning, but the primary benefit is that it allows you to make decisions about the distribution of your wealth, otherwise decided by a probate court.

To most, this sounds straightforward – you dictate how and to whom to distribute your assets after you pass away. But the reality isn’t always so simple.

Factors to Consider When Preparing an Estate Plan:

• Assets and Property: Inventory your assets, like real estate, investments, bank accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and personal belongings. Consider how you want these assets to be distributed among your beneficiaries.
• Beneficiaries: Decide who you want to include as beneficiaries in your estate plan. This can include surviving spouses, family members, friends, charities, or other organizations. Determine the specific assets or percentages you want to allocate to each beneficiary.
• Guardianship: If you have minor children, the terms of your trust should include a guardian who will care for them in the event of your passing. This important decision should be carefully considered and discussed with the potential guardian.
• Health Care Decisions: Consider including healthcare directives such as a living will or health care power of attorney. These documents outline your preferences for medical treatment and appoint someone to make healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
• Executor and Trustee: Choose a trustworthy, capable executor who will manage your estate, ensure your wishes are carried out, and handle any legal and financial matters.

Estate Planning: The Benefits of Having a Corporation or LLC

In estate planning, there can be advantages to incorporating a corporation or setting up a limited liability company (LLC) as part of your overall plan. Here are some potential benefits:

• Asset Protection: By utilizing a corporation or LLC, you can separate your personal and business assets. This separation can provide a level of protection for your wealth if your business faces legal liabilities or creditors.
• Business Continuity: If you own a business, incorporating it or setting up an LLC can help ensure its continuity after your passing. You can designate successors or specify how ownership and management should transition, avoiding potential disputes or disruptions.
• Tax Planning: Corporations and LLCs offer various tax advantages and strategies that can be beneficial in estate planning. They provide opportunities for tax deductions, income splitting, and potential estate tax reduction, depending on your specific circumstances and the tax laws in your jurisdiction.
• Privacy and Confidentiality: A corporation or LLC can help maintain privacy and confidentiality regarding your business and personal affairs. It can shield sensitive information from public scrutiny, which can be important for some individuals and families.
• Succession Planning: Establishing a corporation or LLC allows for more structured and controlled succession planning. You can outline the transfer of ownership and management, ensuring a smooth transition according to your wishes.
• Creditor Protection: In some cases, incorporating a business or setting up an LLC can protect potential creditors seeking to access your assets. This can be particularly relevant if you have significant business-related liabilities.
• Professional Image: Operating as a corporation or LLC can enhance your professional image and credibility, which may be beneficial if you have a business or wish to establish a legacy for your family.

Our Expertise

When working with a trusted business formation and estate planning provider like NCH, you can expect professional guidance and support as you set up your trust. This includes the following steps:

1. Initial Consultation
   You will have an initial consultation with our estate planning provider, where you can discuss your goals, concerns, and unique circumstances. This allows the provider to understand your specific needs and recommend appropriate options.
2. Comprehensive Review
   The estate planning provider will review your assets, liabilities, and family situation. This includes identifying which assets must be placed in the trust such as real estate, investments, bank accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and personal belongings.
3. Customized Estate Plan
   Based on the information gathered and your goals, the estate planning provider will create a customized estate plan tailored to your needs. This may include but are not limited to drafting a will, establishing certain types of trusts (such as revocable living trusts or testamentary trusts), and preparing healthcare directives and powers of attorney.
4. Beneficiary Designations
   The estate planning provider will help you clarify your beneficiaries and determine how you want your assets distributed among them. They will assist you in specifying the assets or percentages you wish to allocate to each beneficiary. This way, you’ll be able to avoid the probate process effectively.
5. Guardianship Considerations
   If you have minor children, the estate planning provider will guide you in designating a guardian who will take care of them in the event of your passing. They will help you make this important decision and ensure it is legally documented.

Prepare an Estate Plan