Estate Planning Considerations in Your Sixties and Seventies
A New Chapter in Your Estate PlanningYour sixties and seventies mark a significant stage in your life, one that requires thoughtful estate planning to secure your financial future and preserve your legacy. Here are essential estate planning considerations for this phase.
Asset Protection and Long Term CareAs you age, planning for long-term care becomes increasingly important. Healthcare costs can escalate rapidly, and it's crucial to safeguard your assets while ensuring you receive the necessary care. One effective tool for achieving this is an Asset Protection Trust.
An Asset Protection Trust is an irrevocable trust that allows you to transfer assets out of your name and into the trust. This protects these assets from being counted against you when determining Medicaid eligibility for long-term care. It's important to be aware of the "look-back" period associated with Medicaid eligibility, which spans five years. Asset transfers made within this period may result in penalties when applying for Medicaid. To maximize the benefits of an Asset Protection Trust, establish it well in advance, ideally when you're in good health and don't anticipate needing long-term care soon. Annual Giving StrategyAnother consideration in your sixties and seventies is estate tax planning. Depending on your assets, it may be time to explore strategies to minimize estate taxes. One such strategy is an Annual Giving Strategy, where you systematically gift assets to reduce your taxable estate while providing support to your loved ones.
This approach allows you to enjoy the satisfaction of assisting family members during your lifetime while minimizing the tax burden on your estate. Review Health Care Proxy and Power of AttorneyWith the passage of time, your health care preferences and financial decisions may evolve. Therefore, it's crucial to review and update your Health Care Proxy and Power of Attorney documents. Ensure that these documents still accurately reflect your wishes and consider the availability and suitability of the individuals named in them.
Family DiscussionsIn your sixties and seventies, it's an ideal time to initiate conversations with your family about your estate plan. Discuss the location of your important documents, your wishes for medical decisions, and who has been designated for various roles in your plan. Open and honest communication can provide your loved ones with clarity, reduce potential confusion, and ensure your wishes are respected.
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How Our Estate Planning Lawyers Can Help
Our experienced estate planning experts are here to guide you through the complexities of estate planning in your sixties and seventies, ensuring your financial future and family's well-being are secured. You can start by using the button below to schedule a free information call, or simply give us a call at 781-784-2322.
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