How do I talk to my elderly parents about estate planning?

Talking to elderly parents about estate planning can be a difficult conversation to have, but it's an important one to ensure that their wishes are met, and their assets are protected. Here are some tips to help you approach the conversation:

1. Choose the right time and place: Estate planning is a sensitive topic, so choose a time and place where your parents will be comfortable and have time to discuss the issue without feeling rushed or pressured.

2. Show respect and empathy: It's important to approach the conversation with respect and empathy for your parents' feelings and wishes. Acknowledge that the topic may be difficult, but that it's important to have a plan in place.

3. Focus on their goals: Start by asking your parents about their goals for their estate and their wishes for their assets. This can help to frame the conversation in a positive and productive way. Remember, it is their estate, and they may decide to not leave anything to you.

4. Offer your help: Offer to help your parents with the estate planning process but be careful to not unduly influence their decision making.

5. Be patient: Estate planning can be a lengthy and complex process, and it may take time for your parents to come to a decision. Be patient and supportive throughout the process.

Remember that estate planning is a personal decision, and your parents may have their own reasons for delaying or avoiding the conversation. Be patient, respectful, and empathetic, and focus on the positive benefits of having a plan in place to protect their assets and ensure their wishes are met.

How do I get started in estate planning?

Planning for your estate can seem overwhelming. Here are some steps to help you get started in estate planning:

1. Determine your goals: Think about what you want to accomplish with your estate plan. Do you want to minimize taxes, ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes, provide for your loved ones, or support a charity? Your goals will help shape your estate plan.

2. Take stock of your assets: Make a list of your assets, including your home, bank accounts, retirement accounts, investments, and personal property. Consider their values and how they should be distributed after your death.

3. Choose a personal representative: A personal representative is responsible for administering your estate after your death. Choose someone you trust who is capable of managing your affairs.

4. Choose a guardian: If you have minor children, you will need to choose a guardian to care for them in the event of your death.

5. Consider creating a will: A will is a legal document that outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death. It can also name an executor and guardian for your children.

6. Consider creating a trust: A trust is a legal arrangement in which a trustee manages assets for the benefit of beneficiaries. A trust can help you avoid probate, minimize taxes, and provide for your loved ones.

7. Review your beneficiary designations: Many assets, such as retirement accounts and life insurance policies, pass directly to beneficiaries outside of probate. Review your beneficiary designations to ensure they are up-to-date and reflect your wishes.

8. Consult with an estate planning attorney: An experienced estate planning attorney can help you create an estate plan that meets your goals and protects your assets. They can also advise you on strategies to minimize taxes and avoid probate.

Estate planning can be complex, but taking these steps can help you get started. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney can help ensure that your estate plan is properly structured and meets your individual needs and goals.

What questions should I ask my estate planning attorney?

Here are some questions that you may want to ask your estate planning attorney:

1. What estate planning documents do I need? A good estate planning attorney should be able to evaluate your individual needs and help you determine which documents are necessary to achieve your estate planning goals. This may include a will, trust, power of attorney, and healthcare directive.

2. What is the cost of estate planning services? Estate planning can be expensive, so it is important to understand the costs upfront. Your attorney should be able to provide you with a clear estimate of the costs involved in your particular situation.

3. What is the process for creating an estate plan? Your attorney should be able to explain the steps involved in creating an estate plan, including any meetings, document preparation, and reviews.

4. How will my assets be distributed? Your attorney should be able to explain how your assets will be distributed after your death and how any taxes or fees will be paid.

5. How often should I update my estate plan? Your attorney should be able to advise you on how often your estate plan should be reviewed and updated to ensure that it continues to meet your needs and reflects your current wishes.

6. What happens if I become incapacitated? Your attorney should be able to explain what will happen if you become unable to make decisions for yourself and how your healthcare and financial affairs will be managed.

7. Can you help me with asset protection strategies? Your attorney should be able to explain what steps you can take to protect your assets from potential creditors or other risks.

8. What experience do you have in estate planning? You should feel comfortable with your attorney's experience and qualifications in estate planning.

Overall, it's important to find an estate planning attorney who can answer your questions and provide you with personalized advice to help you achieve your estate planning goals.

Giving Appreciated Property to Charity in Oregon

If you own property in Oregon that has increased in value over time, you may be wondering how to make the most of your assets. One option that can benefit both you and your favorite causes is to donate your appreciated property to charity. 

Donating appreciated property, such as real estate, stocks, or mutual funds, can provide significant tax advantages for you while supporting the charitable organizations that matter to you. Here are some of the benefits of giving appreciated property to charity in Oregon: 

•   You can avoid paying capital gains tax on the appreciation of your property. If you sell your property and donate the proceeds, you will have to pay tax on the difference between your cost basis and the sale price. However, if you donate your property directly to a qualified charity, you can bypass this tax and save more for yourself and for charity. 

• You can claim an income tax deduction for the fair market value of your property. The fair market value is what a willing buyer would pay a willing seller for your property at the time of donation. You can deduct this amount from your taxable income if you itemize your deductions on Schedule A of Form 1040. The deduction is subject to certain limitations based on your adjusted gross income (AGI) and the type of charity you donate to. 

• For donations of cash to public charities, such as schools, hospitals, or churches, you can deduct up to 60% of your AGI. For donations of appreciated property to public charities, you can deduct up to 30% of your AGI. Any excess deduction can be carried forward for up to five years. 

• For donations of cash or appreciated property to private foundations, such as family foundations or donor-advised funds, you can deduct up to 30% of your AGI for cash and up to 20% of your AGI for appreciated property. Any excess deduction can be carried forward for up to five years. 

• You can make a lasting impact on the causes you care about. By donating appreciated property to charity, you can support the mission and vision of the organizations that align with your values and goals. You can also create a legacy of generosity that inspires others and makes a difference in your community. 

How do I donate appreciated property to charity in Oregon? 

 The process of donating appreciated property to charity in Oregon may vary depending on the type and condition of your property and the requirements of the charity you choose. However, here are some general steps that apply in most cases: 

•   Identify a qualified charity that accepts donations of appreciated property and has a purpose that matches yours. 

• Contact the charity and inform them about your intention to donate your property. Ask them about their policies and procedures for accepting such donations. 

• Obtain an independent appraisal of your property from a qualified appraiser who follows IRS (Internal Revenue Service) guidelines. You will need this appraisal report for tax purposes and for substantiating the fair market value of your donation. 

• Transfer the title or ownership documents of your property directly to the charity or to a trustee if you are using a charitable trust. 

• Obtain a written acknowledgment from the charity that includes the name and address of the charity, the date and description of your donation, and whether any goods or services were provided by them in exchange for it. 

• File Form 8283 with Form 1040 if you claim a deduction over $500 for noncash charitable contributions. 

• Keep all records related to your donation, such as appraisal report, title transfer, receipt, and correspondence with the charity, for at least seven years after filing your tax return. 

  If you are interested in giving appreciated property to charity in Oregon, please contact us today. 

How often should an estate plan or will be updated or reviewed?

It is a good idea to review and update your estate plan or will periodically to ensure that it continues to meet your needs and reflects your current wishes. There is no set schedule for updating your estate plan or will, as the need for updates can vary depending on your personal circumstances and changes in the law. However, here are some general guidelines to consider:

1. Major life events: You should review and update your estate plan or will following major life events such as the birth or adoption of a child, marriage or divorce, the death of a spouse or beneficiary, or a significant change in your financial situation.

2. Changes in the law: Changes in the tax laws, estate planning laws, or other relevant laws can affect the effectiveness of your estate plan or will. It is a good idea to review your estate plan or will periodically to ensure that it remains up-to-date and in compliance with current laws.

3. Time: It is a good practice to review your estate plan or will every three to five years, even if there have been no major changes in your life. This can help ensure that your estate plan or will continues to meet your needs and reflects your current wishes.

In general, it is a good idea to review your estate plan or will periodically to ensure that it continues to meet your needs and reflects your current wishes. You should consult with an estate planning attorney if you have questions or concerns about updating your estate plan or will.