Ready to get started on your own estate plan?

Estate planning is the process of arranging and managing your assets in a way that ensures they are transferred to your beneficiaries in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible

Estate planning is important because it helps you ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your loved ones are taken care of after you pass away. It can also help minimize taxes and avoid probate.

If you Google estate planning cost you will get a big range of prices. At Burkhardt & Kreisler we aim to provide high quality services at a reasonable price. We bill on a flat fee based on what documents you need and want. You will get a fee quote before any work is started, and we are happy to work with you on a payment plan if needed. We do not require payment until after your documents have been completed and delivered.

An estate plan typically includes a will, trust, power of attorney, and healthcare directive. Depending on your situation, other documents such as a living will or a special needs trust may also be necessary.

The answer is ... it depends. A trust is usually needed where you have a complicated plan, a blended family, or heirs that will need special protections. We also use trusts to help minimize estate taxes.

Wills are more appropriate for small or simple estates. Just having a will won't necessarily avoid probate, so make sure you have discussed your assets with an attorney to ensure your loved ones won't have to go to court after you are gone.

In general, you should update your estate plan after any big life changes - when your children reach adulthood, at the death of a family member, if you are divorced or widowed, or when you sell or purchase real estate.

If we prepare your estate plan, we will check in at least every three years to remind you to review and update your plan.