But What IS a Trust?
What is a trust? Learn the simple definition and the 4 essential elements of a trust explained clearly. Your trust should be personalized to your specific needs, reflecting your values, shielding your assets from potential risks, and minimizing tax burdens.
Common Trusts and Their Purposes
Trusts are powerful options in your estate planning toolbox, but not all trusts are created equal. Certain "types" of trusts are umbrella terms that could describe several different trusts - for example, there are many different types of "irrevocable" trusts.
8 Common Considerations for Using Trusts
Choosing whether to use a trust versus other estate planning tools can be daunting. However, in Washington, that's not always true since our state takes a streamlined probate approach. Learn 8 common considerations to help determine if a trust is appropriate for your unique estate planning situation.
Avoid These 9 Common Trust Pitfalls
Trusts are a great tool in estate planning, offering flexibility, control, and streamlined administration, but like everything, there are potential pitfalls if not used properly. Discover how to avoid these pitfalls to ensure your trust plan is carried out the way you have in mind.
Did You Know That Professional Fiduciaries Are An Option?
Learn about professional fiduciaries as an alternative when you don't have family or friends to serve as your power of attorney, executor, or trustee, and why this option might make sense for your estate plan.
Crucial Insights: Will Vs. Power Of Attorney
Discover why both a Will and power of attorney are essential in your estate plan. Learn how these documents serve different purposes and protect you and your loved ones at different stages of life.
I Love You Wills: Sounds Sweet, But Are They Smart?
Discover the potential pitfalls of 'I love you Wills' for blended families and explore smarter estate planning solutions that protect all loved ones and ensure your wishes are honored.
Simplify Your Estate Planning
Explore our step-by-step estate planning process that creates personalized plans for your family's security. Learn what documents you need and how to protect what matters most.
Estate Planning: A Powerful Exercise in Optimism
Estate planning often brings to mind a checklist of financial and legal steps, but it’s much more than that—it’s a profound act of optimism and love.
Estate Planning: Putting a Plan in Place
Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone. It’s about being prepared for unexpected events throughout your life.
Estate Planning Advice for Women: Plan Early, Plan Smart
Estate planning is crucial for everyone, but for single women, it comes with unique challenges and opportunities. Whether you're single, married, divorced, or widowed, having a solid estate plan is essential—especially if you’re over 60.
Estate Planning for Unmarried Couples: Essential Steps to Protect Each Other
Creating an estate plan is especially important for unmarried couples. A well-prepared estate plan ensures that your wishes are respected, both during your lifetime and after you’re gone.
Understanding the Key Elements of Estate Planning
Creating an estate plan might sound overwhelming, but understanding its essential components can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Is It Time to Review Your Estate Plan?
It might be time to revisit your estate planning documents if you haven’t looked at them recently, or don’t have any at all. Regular reviews ensure that your plans remain aligned with your current life situation and future wishes.
This guide is for you if you’re ready to begin organizing your thoughts, get your ideas on paper, and take the first steps to start your estate plan.
Once you get started, you will see how the puzzle pieces fall into place.