Estate Planning is often perceived as a wealth service; yet in reality anyone who has assets should be getting their affairs in order. Not all assets are controlled by a will. A will can only address Estate assets. An Estate Plan ensures that the ownership and control of all your assets passes to your beneficiaries.
It is more than just a will. An Estate Plan will make sure your beneficiaries receive what they are entitled to and make the transition of assets as smooth as possible. A proper Estate Plan will minimise tax and capital gains penalties that might otherwise be imposed on the beneficiary.
Consider the following questions:
• Do you have appropriate life insurance to fund dependants and beneficiaries needs?
• Are your assets protected in the case one of your beneficiaries becoming divorced after your death?
• Do you need to provide for a child with a disability?
• Do you have children who may spend money intended for other purposes, such as the education of a grandchild?
• Can you make a binding nomination through your super fund?
• What do you want to happen to your assets if your spouse remarries after your death?