Estate planning and considerations

Here are some of the issues to consider when setting up an estate plan and to discuss with your estate-planning team.

Account registration

Are your accounts registered properly, with the correct people on the account? If you have a living trust, have your accounts been registered in the name of the trust?

Beneficiary designation

Are the beneficiaries named on your accounts still correct? Are these beneficiary designations consistent with your overall estate plan?

Health care directive/Living Will 

Do you have specific wishes for any life-prolonging procedures? This document can convey your wishes when you are no longer able to communicate them.

Durable Power of Attorney (financial and health care)

Have you named someone to make financial and health care decisions on your behalf, should you become incapacitated? A Durable Power of Attorney is an important document that allows you to name this individual.

Will 

Do you have a last will and testament to ensure your assets transfer in the manner you would prefer? In the will, you can name a guardian for your minor children or other dependents.

Trust

Are you concerned about the following issues:

• Estate taxes
• Avoiding probate
• Controlling the transfer of assets to your heirs
• Leaving assets to spendthrift children
• Protecting assets during incapacitation
• Needing assistance with money management and paying bills

If so, consider setting up a trust.

How we can help

Ask your Edward Jones financial advisor whether trust services may be an appropriate part of your estate strategy.