Understanding Wills and Trusts

One important aspect of planning for retirement is also planning for the security of your loved ones after you’re gone and they need it most. Our Dallas financial advisors understand the value of proper estate planning, which is why we want to take the time to explain two options that will protect your family and your assets: wills and trusts. Familiarizing yourself with your estate plan options available at our Dallas financial planning office will help you decide the best route for you.

Our Independent Financial Advisors Explain Wills and Trusts

Both wills and trusts determine where your assets go when you pass away, and are an important facet of your independent financial planning. But they are quite different in terms of how they take effect and when. Our Dallas financial advisor explains each below:

Wills 

A will is a document that identifies the recipients of your assets, names guardians for your dependents, and outlines your desired final arrangements. A will takes effect when you pass away, at which time it will go through the probate process in court to prove its validity. If your will and estate plan aren’t rock solid, this process can be time-consuming and expensive, not only delaying your beneficiaries’ access to their inheritance, but reducing the amount received.

Trusts

A trust is a legal agreement between two parties that allows a transfer of assets from the grantor to the trustee. It takes effect as soon as you sign it and comes with a number of benefits because it is not subject to probate. Trusts are extremely versatile and can be arranged to meet your needs and the needs of your loved ones while protecting your assets from probate and often reducing estate taxes that would otherwise befall your beneficiaries. Another benefit to consider during your Dallas financial planning is that a trust is a private estate plan, while a will is a public document that can be accessed by the courts.  

Dallas Retirement Planning Should Also Include Estate Planning

As you prepare for the future, you should be thinking about your loved ones’ futures as well. Our Dallas financial advisors can not only help you in planning for retirement, but we also offer estate planning services that include will and trust review. Our Dallas retirement financial advisors want to ensure your will and/or trust are written to protect your assets and honor your wishes with as little government intervention as possible. Our Dallas financial planning office can also aid your search for a suitable estate attorney to assist in preparing these documents with your financial best interests in mind. 

Our Dallas Financial Advisors Provide Estate Planning

While not always the easiest thing to think about, estate planning is an important part of maintaining your financial health and ensuring your loved ones are supported. At Retire Guides, protecting your hard-earned wealth is our top priority, and we offer a variety of services to aid in your Dallas retirement planning and estate planning. If you’re ready to determine the right plan for your assets, call our independent financial advisors to schedule an appointment. We’d be honored to discuss ways to make sure your wealth is protected and passed on to those who matter most.