What to Leave to Your Family, Elder Law Attorney, Woodstock, GA

Throughout your life, you have most likely accumulated many different types of assets. When planning your estate, it is useful to know which of those assets you should leave to your family members.

Estate planning is not just about deciding how much you want to give your heirs. It is also about how you want to give it to them. Specifically, you might need to decide whether a particular asset should be passed along “as is” or whether it would be better to dispose of a certain asset now and reposition its value for maximum benefit to your estate (and your heirs). While every situation is unique, there are some general considerations to keep in mind as Investopedia recently discussed in “Estate Planning: Which Assets Are Best to Leave Your Family.” The three most important considerations are:

Liquidity – Generally speaking, the more liquid your assets are, the better they are for heirs to inherit. Liquid assets can be easily converted and used by heirs, and the assets do not take up physical space.
Sentiment – Assets that might have sentimental value to your heirs should be handled carefully. If more than one person may want them after you pass away, it is often best to discuss how the assets will be handled with those people because later surprises could lead to acrimony.
Taxes – It is important to plan how different assets will be taxed after you pass away. You will need to account for both the capital gains tax and the estate tax; thus, it is best to seek the advice of a professional about how to handle taxable assets.

If this sounds like a lot to consider, meet with an experienced estate planning attorney. He or she will help you create the right plan for your situation.

Reference: Investopedia (June 27, 2016) “Estate Planning: Which Assets Are Best to Leave Your Family”

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“On the threshold of retirement, we finally decided to quit thinking we could self-prepare the requisite documents. We had previously had only a very simple will. We needed the necessary legal (including updated will) & health care docs but didn’t want to deal with the time & complication of legalese. Cindy made the process relatively painless. She took the time to explain and answer questions without trying to upsell services. We were done in 2 meetings plus the reading of emailed drafts. In addition to preparing the documents, Nelson Eldercare will be there when our adult children need advice on executing the plans we’ve put in place.So glad it’s behind us and would recommend Cindy and her helpful staff.”

- Bonnie

Cindy and her company treat their clients like family. Nelson’s offers clear, direct, and honest guidance in planning for your families security and future. No one wants to actively sit down and make these decisions, but Nelson’s makes this process seamless. I was so impressed with their willingness to answer all questions big or small. So glad I made the decision have them help my mom and dad and now me. You can’t go wrong with Nelson’s Elder Care Law.

- Hope

The very best elder law attorney and staff anyone could ever ask for! I have referred a number of clients to Cindy and she never disappoints. She is kind, caring, and extremely thorough in making sure everything is completed as it should be. I highly recommend Cindy for anyone needing lawyer services; she truly goes above and beyond for every client she helps and has had a huge impact in so many peoples’ lives. Thank you, Cindy and staff, for everything that you do- I’m so glad to know you!

- Kerri

I heard Cindy’s presentation at a Senior Luncheon at my church, and was very impressed. She helped my daughter and me understand many aspects of elder law. Josh has also been very helpful in my planning to enter an independent living situation . I have told many friends about them.

- Charlotte

Cindy and the Nelson Elder Care Law team are trustworthy and helpful. They are the experts in elder care law. At Leaf Cremation, we entrust our families to the care of the Nelson team when their services are needed.

- Pierce