How do my personal and financial goals affect my estate plan?
One’s personal and financial goals will affect how an estate plan is developed. The goal of leaving a large estate to one’s heirs with little tax due would be treated differently than the goal of living large and leaving one’s heirs whatever is left over after taxes.

Does everyone need estate planning?
Mostly everyone has a need for estate planning. Estate planning not only consists of the legal drafting of documents, but also the systematic analysis of uncovering potential problems. Also, keep in mind that federal and state laws mandate the disposition of assets for those without a formal estate plan in place. So, even simple estates may require some formal estate plan. More sophisticated estate planning is important for those with minor children or children with special needs, with dependents who are incapable or do not wish to manage money, who own property in more than one state, who own closely held business interests, or who have charitable inclinations.

How can the financial planning process at Sage Rutty help with my estate plan?
Only an attorney can draft legal documents such as wills and trusts. However, the financial planning department at Sage Rutty will be able to review your current estate plan and make recommendations as to updating or strengthening it. Through the comprehensive planning process, our financial planners gather in-depth financial data and gain an understanding of your goals and objectives. This thorough financial analysis enables the planner to suggest alternatives to develop or strengthen an estate plan that will be efficient and effective in meeting your financial and personal objectives.

Will you provide me with assistance in implementing my estate plan?
Developing the available estate planning alternatives is only part of Sage Rutty’s comprehensive planning process. Should you desire, our financial planners would work with you and your chosen attorney to arrive at specific estate planning solutions.

Will one estate plan provide me with adequate financial planning for my entire life?
It is recommended that you review your financial plan on an annual basis. Certain life changes may indicate to the professional a need to revisit the estate-planning element of your financial plan.