Pre-Planning Information

It is human to put things off. But proper planning for the event of one's death can spare a family many traumatic decisions and financial burdens.

Prearrangement of Funerals

The desires and wishes for one's funeral, burial and expenses can be specified to eliminate confusion, differences of opinion and difficult decisions on the part of our family members. Prearranging a funeral may seem a difficult task, but ther can be peace of mind for an individual who knows that his or her wishes will be followed. Consult the Funeral Director of your choice for more information and guidance in the funeral prearrangement.

Estate taxes

Your estate, when evaluated for Federal estate taxes, will probably be much larger than you think. Generally included in your taxable estate are life insurance, real estate, stocks and bonds, personal checking and savings accounts, market value of business interests, household furniture collections, autos and other tangible property. Be certain to consult an attorney periodically about current federal and state inheritance tax laws.

Other property may be included in your taxable estate such as gifts of property made by you or to you, property in trusts created by you and property in trusts for you.

Your estate will pay less taxes and survivors will receive more of your hard earned estate if you PLAN.

Wills

Estate taxes can be reduced significantly if the deceased has prepared a well conceived will through an attorney. Also your property and the savings of a lifetime can be given to the people you select and you can provide for the preservation of family heirlooms and for the continuation of a business.

Protect Important Papers

All important legal documents should be kept in a safety deposit box. Such documents would include a copy of your will (with the original kept with your attorney), auto titles, marriage papers, divorce papers, other government recorded documents and bank account documents. An inventory list should be stored at home, with a duplicate in the deposit box and with your attorney.