Wednesday 27 January 2016

The Pros Of Competent Estate Planning Massachusetts

By Peter Barnes


It is has long been known that death and taxes are the only certainties in life. The former is a normal part of life. People are born, live and eventually die. This cannot be avoided. The only thing that one can do is make preparations of how their assets will be divided among the beneficiaries consisting of loved ones and any other dependents when they die. Estate planning Massachusetts is important in that it helps people manage their assets even after their death. An estate plan in Dedham, MA, consists of several documents that enable one plan their wealth.

One of the main benefits of having a good plan is that it helps provide for the immediate family of the deceased. Many people want to leave their spouses and children well taken care of after their demise. They like to ensure that all the kids under their care get quality education and upbringing. If the kids are under eighteen, a legal guardian should be appointed in case of anything. Otherwise, the court makes these decisions.

A will allows beneficiaries to get their property quickly and efficiently. This is because it is followed to the letter. This includes any insurance payments, joint tenancy, living trusts, expediting probate as well as ensuring that partial payments are made even if the will is still in probate. Often, the property of anyone who dies intestate will have many problems and issues when it comes to its division since everybody thinks that they are entitled to something.

Estate planning ensures one is taken care of even if they are incapacitated either physically or mentally. Here a living will is used to decide the fate of the property held by the owner. If there is no such arrangement, a power of attorney is given. It allows the one who holds this power to make key decisions on behalf of the person incapacitated.

It is highly advised to choose a competent and trustworthy executor. This is a person tasked with the responsibility of ensuring the wishes left behind are followed. They will divide the property and assets of the deceased according to their last wishes. They have total authority over the estate during this process. This reduces the stress of your family having to deal with the burden of following up the property while in mourning.

Having a good estate plan with a solid will minimizes expenses incurred in the transfer of the property to the rightful beneficiaries. This tends to leave more money for them. Dying intestate causes many of family wrangles as people fight for the wealth. This ends up in a law court. The cost of the case and hiring lawyers is very high especially if the litigation process goes on for years.

One can make sure that they leave a piece of the estate to their favorite charity. Many people leave a significant amount of their wealth in donation to the charities and causes they support. These include religious causes, education or environmental. Additionally, if the deceased had their own charity, they could leave all their wealth to advance its cause.

Taxes must be paid to ensure that the government is well funded. Failure to remit tax returns is a serious offense. Ensure that you have paid all taxes required and leave the rest of the estate to beneficiaries. When it comes to business, make sure that your stake in the venture is transferred to someone else to ensure continuity.




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