Estate Planning
For many, living for today might be the only consideration, however, at HMW Advisors, we focus on serving others from generation to generation. Therefore no plan should be complete without the consideration of one’s legacy and how it should be carried out as expeditiously as possible. Together with your estate planning attorney, we make sure that your wealth is transitioned to heirs and charities without heavy, immediate, and unnecessary taxation.
“Only put off till tomorrow what you are willing to die having left undone.” — Pablo Picasso
If you want to leave a lasting legacy, whether for loved ones or a charitable organization, you'll need to create a well-thought-out estate plan. Without a plan in place, the government, lawyers, or others who do not have your best interests and wishes at heart could decide the fate of your estate.
It is critical to have an estate plan in place to ensure that your estate is handled according to your intentions. We can help you draft documents and review your situation with your estate planning attorney so that your estate benefits the people and charities you care about most.
What We Can Do For You
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Will education: We can help you understand how to structure your will so that your legal team can draft a document that reflects your wishes for how your estate should be handled and distributed. Our team will guide you through the complexities of this document, from a simple will to a testamentary will, joint wills, and living wills, so you don't have to worry about the details.
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Creating Powers of Attorney (POA): Whether it’s to manage specific assets, such as investments, accounts, and real estate holdings, or to help others make health care decisions if you are ill or incapacitated, you need a POA in place to ensure your wishes are followed. A well-written POA will also make it easier to make decisions about your final arrangements and those related to your estate after you pass away.
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Choosing executors: The executors of your estate have significant authority over how your estate is managed after your death. We’ll help you understand the importance of choosing an executor(s) for your estate, and what criteria you should consider when appointing someone to discharge this all-important role – especially if minor children/guardians are involved.
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Designating beneficiaries: If you don't carefully choose beneficiaries for your assets, your estate assets may end up in the hands of people you didn't intend to benefit from them. Your dependents' requirements will be met if you have a well-thought-out estate plan.
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Keeping estate taxes and probate fees to a minimum: Taxes, fees, and other levies can eat up a large portion of your estate before your beneficiaries see a penny. Taxes and fees can be mitigated with careful preparation.
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Estate protection: Even after you pass, many of your assets – such as long-term investments and property – will likely need protection and management until they are disposed of and their proceeds are distributed to your beneficiaries. Your assets will likely not receive the type and level of protection they require if you don't have an estate plan.
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Distribute your legacy: Our experts can help you align your estate plans and will so that your assets are distributed according to your final wishes.
Make an appointment with us to learn more about what an estate plan can achieve for you.
