Estate Planning

Estate planning is an important part of your overall financial planning. There are three main reasons why you should carefully consider estate planning:

• To ensure that your assets are distributed in the manner that you would wish in the event of death
• To ensure that your assets are distributed in a tax-effective manner, and
• To ensure that your assets are distributed in a timely manner

Central to any estate plan is a valid Will. It is important to have a Will in place to ensure that your wishes are followed in relation to your financial and personal matters in the event of your death.

Wills cover instructions in relation to the following:

• How and to whom your assets should be distributed
• Who is to be the executor of your estate
• The appointment of a guardian for any minor children, and
• Burial or cremation instructions

It is essential to have an up-to-date and properly drawn Will to ensure:

• Your exact wishes are clearly recorded
• Your financial and family circumstances are properly and professionally considered in accordance with prevailing laws
• Your assets continue to be managed by your executor immediately after you die, and
• Most importantly, having a Will gives you the peace of mind always that you have made appropriate provisions for your intended beneficiaries

Wills should always be created by a Solicitor who is an expert in estate planning and we are happy to refer you to one if you wish.