Our favorite Taxgirl columnist for Forbes, Kelly Phillips Erb, recently posted a story about (is it too soon?) the back-to-school shopping frenzy. For many parents, it’s the storm before the calm. This rush to collect school clothes and supplies generates huge revenues that could almost rival those of the Christmas season. But for me as an estate planning attorney, the back-to-school season signals an important reminder. Speaking to all parents: If you have children, this is a good time to be sure they are included in your estate plan. If they are not, then it’s time to talk to an estate planning attorney! Parenting carries so many responsibilities; thinking ahead to unanticipated events, and planning for them, is a very important one. Here are just a few ways children figure in a complete estate plan:

• Beneficiaries. Are your children named as your beneficiaries, in your will or any trusts?
• Bequests. Is there a specific item (such as jewelry) you wish to leave to a particular child?
• Guardianship designations. Should anything happen to you or their other parent, who do you appoint to take care of/raise your children?
• Educational considerations. Would your children benefit from a CUTMA account (or other trust) to help pay for their future educational needs?

Helping you plan and legally establish your designations for family estate matters such as these is what I do. My experience as a California estate planning attorney gives me the insight and the knowledge to work with you and see that your directives are put into place properly, legally and completely. That gives you more time to enjoy with your family, and less to worry about – if it is ever possible for a parent not to worry! Please call with any questions or concerns you have. The sooner you do, the sooner we can get to work creating a plan that meets your needs and expectations. Feel free to contact me at 818.956.9200.  

Glendale Location

616 E. Glenoaks Boulevard, Suite 203

Glendale, CA 91207

 

Sherman Oaks Location

15303 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 900

Sherman Oaks, CA 91403