Helpful information to guide your estate planning journey
Estate planning can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. These resources are designed to answer your questions and help you feel confident as you plan for your family's future.
Yes. Without an estate plan, state law determines who receives your assets, who cares for your children, and who makes decisions if you're incapacitated. An estate plan ensures your wishes—not the state's default rules—are followed.
A will takes effect after death and goes through probate court. A trust can take effect immediately, avoids probate, and offers more control over how and when assets are distributed. Many people benefit from having both.
Review your plan after major life events: marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a beneficiary, significant changes in assets, or moving to a new state. At minimum, review every 3-5 years.
Probate is the court process of validating a will and distributing assets. It can be time-consuming and public. Trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint ownership are common ways to avoid probate.
You die "intestate," meaning state law determines asset distribution—typically to your spouse and children in specific proportions. This may not match your wishes, and the court appoints someone to administer your estate.
Costs vary based on complexity. A simple will is less expensive than a comprehensive trust-based plan. During your consultation, I'll provide clear pricing based on your specific needs—no surprises.
Downloadable resources to help you prepare
A comprehensive checklist of documents and decisions to consider when creating your estate plan.
Download PDFWhat to expect and how to fulfill your duties if you've been named executor of an estate.
Download PDFA worksheet to organize important information your family will need—accounts, contacts, and wishes.
Download PDFCommon estate planning terminology explained
A person or entity designated to receive assets from a will, trust, or account.
The person named in a will to manage the estate and carry out its instructions.
The person who creates a trust (also called settlor or trustor).
Dying without a valid will, leaving asset distribution to state law.
A legal document authorizing someone to act on your behalf for financial or legal matters.
The court-supervised process of validating a will and distributing estate assets.
A trust that can be changed or cancelled during the grantor's lifetime.
The person or institution responsible for managing trust assets according to its terms.
Estate planning often involves tax considerations—from trust taxation to estate tax planning. Through PHY CPA, I provide integrated tax services that work seamlessly with your estate plan.
Visit PHY CPAI'm happy to answer your questions and help you understand your options.
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