Determining the Best Estate Plan for You

Many people I have worked with over the years come to me not really knowing what an estate plan includes. Most have heard the terms “living trust” and “last will”, but are not sure what they need, or how a trust or a will can help them. We’re here to help you determine what the best estate plan is for you.

When a new client calls our office, these are some of the first questions we ask, and this information provides the foundation to help them decide the best estate plan:

1. Are you a California resident?
   If you are a full-time California resident or own property in California, we can help you prepare an estate plan under California Law.
2. Do you currently have any estate planning documents?
   If you already have a living trust and need to update it, we can help; most people update their estate planning documents two to three times in their lifetime.
3. Do you own your home?
   If you own your home, you should consider a living trust; a living trust is the best way to protect your home from probate, which will save your loved ones a lot of time and money when you pass away.
4. If you own your home in Palm Springs, is it on Indian Lease Land?
   If you own property on Indian Lease Land, you can still protect it with a living trust; we can help you, you just need to be sure to follow all guidelines, including those required by the State of California, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the County Recorder’s Office.
5. Do you know who you want to inherit your assets when you pass away?
   Whether you prepare a living trust or a last will, you can decide how you want your assets distributed when you pass; however, if you do not have any estate planning documents, the State of California will decide who inherits your money and property, and they may go to an unwanted relative.

While these are good questions to ask initially, the best thing to do is to come in for a consultation so we can discuss your specific situation together, and advise you based on your particular needs and goals.