Building an enduring plan for a lasting legacy

Estate & Charitable Planning


Creating your legacy and leaving your mark

One of the greatest rewards of wealth is being able to share it with others. You've taken care of your own needs and wants, but it takes prudence and planning to make sure your loved ones and favourite charities last for generations. Having an estate plan to control the distribution of your assets benefits you, your family and the causes you care about and can help you mitigate potential pitfalls in the future.

We have the resources to customize a plan that not only protects your assets but also helps you share your wealth with the people and charities you care about most.

 

  • Who needs an estate plan? The short answer is everyone. But creating a legacy that reflects your whole life - who you are and what you've accomplished - doesn't have to be a morbid task.

    It can be life-affirming to preserve your family values and ensure your assets go to those closest to you and in accordance with your wishes. And perhaps the most vital aspect of estate planning is communicating your wishes with your loved ones and making sure they are thoroughly and accurately documented.

    Every estate plan should include these legal documents:

    • A Will
    • A Power of Attorney for Financial Affairs
    • A Power of Attorney for Medical Decisions or Living Will/Directive

  • Making charitable giving part of your financial and estate plan can allow you to support the charities and causes you love, now and in the future. Moreover, having the right charitable giving strategy can help further your overall wealth management plan.

    There are many ways you can make charitable giving part of your overall financial plan, each with its own level of control and tax benefits. Some options provide immediate or future tax deductions while others can provide a continuous income stream.

    We can work with you to provide recommendations that not only benefit you now but provide the opportunity to shape the way you wish to be remembered.

     

    Please note, changes in tax laws or regulations may occur at any time and could substantially impact your situation. Raymond James financial advisors do not render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.


  • Establishing a trust within your overall estate plan provides the certainty and control over all you've worked for and accumulated during your lifetime, regardless of asset level.

    Trusts give you the confidence of knowing what will happen to your estate, can potentially exclude probate, a lengthy and expensive process, and can avoid the judicial appointment of a guardian in the event of incapacity. Some provide for long-term care or education for children or grandchildren; while others can provide for a favourite charity.

     


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