Estate Planning

A will is an important part of an estate plan. However, it does not control all assets. In Oregon, some assets pass by beneficiary designation rather than under the terms of a will. What assets usually pass outside a will? Life insurance policies, retirement accounts...

Many families in Bend face significant stress when a loved one suddenly needs assistance. Standard health insurance often does not cover extended nursing home stays or home health care when it matters most. Preparing for these costs ahead of time helps protect...

Transferring wealth to loved ones can carry a significant tax cost in Oregon, especially when appreciated assets like stocks or real estate are involved. A charitable remainder trust (CRT) is one estate planning tool that may help reduce that burden while supporting...

Many families usually assume that estate plans are only for the ultra-rich. That is simply not true. In fact, if you own a home, have some savings or are raising children, a comprehensive estate plan can protect your family too. What sets a comprehensive estate plan...

Your home is often the result of years of hard work, careful saving and personal sacrifice. It can also be one of your most valuable investments. Nevertheless, if the value of your Bend house grows considerably, it may become an estate planning challenge. When your...

Many people assume estate planning only matters after they pass. This causes many people to delay or avoid planning. However, some of the most important estate plans protect you while you during your lifetime. A proper estate plan also protects you if you become too...

Many American adults delay or postpone estate planning. Research shows that 56% of them have zero estate planning documents. The significance of an estate plan is widely known. Public awareness campaigns, financial education and media coverage continually highlight...

You have many decisions to make when you’re creating an estate plan. One of these is how you will get your assets to the intended beneficiaries. Some people include these instructions in their will, but that means that the distribution will have to go through the...

People often think that estate planning is daunting, confusing and overwhelming. They imagine that they will have to gather extensive documentation and paperwork, and it can sometimes lead to procrastination. They just put the task off because it feels like too much....

Creating a will is an important part of protecting your family and preserving your wishes for the future. A carefully prepared document can simplify the administration of your estate and provide clarity for your loved ones. Even so, small mistakes can create...