Just like the game of chess, smart Estate Planning is always looking several steps ahead. Whether you're leaving a legacy from your life savings or the sale of your business, the key to success is to do your planning now, so you get to choose the best outcome for those you love.

Without a plan, your assets could end up in probate, costing your family time, money and stress at the worst possible moment. But with a solid and well-prepared plan, you can protect your wealth, ensure your children or spouse are cared for, and even minimize taxes. Here at IWA, we help clients understand the importance of having all four major Estate Planning documents in place and up-to-date:

With a few briefs clicks, our Estate Planning App can help you quickly determine how you can better safeguard your family’s fortunes from the unexpected, and achieve a better future on your terms.

Will

A Will, by itself in California, will not save your family from a long, arduous and costly entanglement with Probate Court. Instead it primarily clarifies who will take care of minor children, or who will inherit your non-financial assets - in other words, your stuff! A common misconception is that a will is all you need to ensure your wishes are followed. Responsible estate planning requires three more vital documents.

Trust

A Trust clearly spells out how you wish your financial assets (including real estate) to be passed on, or divided among heirs, or shared with your favorite charities. The Trust allows your wishes to be carried out virtually right away, through the Successor Trustee you've selected, and avoids the expense and stress of Probate Court.

Financial Power of Attorney

A Financial Power of Attorney provides a seemless transfer of decision-making authority over your affairs, should you ever be hospitalized, disabled or unable to make financial decisions for yourself. It's at times like these that hard choices need to be made and often large checks need to be written. The Financial POA helps your loved ones have one less thing to worry about it in your time of need.

Advanced Healthcare Directive

An Advanced Healthcare Directive is your way of signaling now, when your healthy, just how much effort and expense you wish your physicians to incur in the worst case scenario. If you feel your story deserves a closing chapter written on your terms, this is the best way to clearly communicate it. Unlike the past, getting these four documents in place is easier and less expensive than ever. If you need help getting them squared away, call us today at 805-339-0760.