ESTATE PLANNING

The question we are often asked is “Do I really need an estate plan?” The answer, regardless of your stage is life is ”Yes.” The truth is that an accident can occur at any moment resulting in your incapacity to make important financial and medical decisions. A basic estate plan takes this into account and let’s your loved ones know your wishes.

A basic estate plan also includes a will. A will is simply a document that distributes your assets to those you love in the amounts you designate. When a person dies with a will the estate must go through probate. Probate is a legal process where the court oversees the distribution of your assets. Those that die without a will, die ”intestate.” When some dies intestate their assets are distributed according to Pennsylvania’s Intestate Statute and if no heirs are found, your assets escheat (are given) to the Commonwealth.

Some individuals need more than a basic estate plan. For instance, those wishing to avoid probate use a trust based plan. A trust often provides specific instructions regarding the distribution of assets to your beneficiaries. People with minor children should consider a trust to instruct distribution at a specific age or at specific intervals. Trusts have become increasingly popular because a trust avoids time-consuming and public probate. A trust based estate plan costs more to set up, but offers more specific, secure, and private transfer of your assets.

Estate planning is not a one-time event. An estate plan should be reviewed every 3-5 years or when a major life event occurs, such as having a child or purchasing a home. Our estate planning packages include a third year review for free.

Dutko & Chwiecko are prepared to assist you with an estate plan that is right for your situation. Our pricing schedule begins with a basic estate plan for $995.00. We offer several estate planning packages to fit your needs.