Don't leave your legacy to chance, make a plan.

Revocable Living Trust:

A legally recognized entity that holds ownership of your assets and ensures they are transferred to your beneficiaries without the need for probate (and the associated costs).

• Avoids court involvement, skipping the delays and legal fees

• Maintains privacy. Your financial affairs do NOT become part of public record, unlike a will

• You call the shots - you're in control, so you can update, change or revoke the trust at anytime

Last Will & Testament: A common, legally binding document that outlines who will inherit your assets and belongings, who will take care of your minor children of pets by naming a legal guardian, who will manage your affairs after you pass, who will make burial or cremation and funeral arrangements according to your preferences.

• When used in combination with a trust this is known as a "Pour-Over Will" and ensures that any assets not directly placed into the trust are transferred into it upon your passing, ensuring that even small oversights are still distributed according to your trust.

• Without a Will, the laws in your state will decide what happens to your assets and minor children, and gives no consideration to your wishes.

Power of Attorney: Also referred to as a POA, allows you to appoint someone with the authority to manage your legal affairs if you are unwilling or unable. This may include financial transactions such as paying bills, managing investments and filing taxes, or handling legal matters on your behalf.

• Without a POA your family may need to seek court approval, leading to delays and additional expenses.

Advanced Healthcare Directive: This is where you can outline your medical preferences in the event you are unable to communicate them yourself. This may include life sustaining treatment preferences, pain management and palliative care choices, personal or religious values regarding end of life care, and assigning someone who is authorized to make medical decisions on your behalf - known as a healthcare agent.

Certification of Trust: A summarizing document proving that your Trust exists without revealing the specific details. This protects your privacy by limiting access to the complete trust documents including specific assets, beneficiaries and distributions. Generally used to verify the authenticity of your trust with banks, financial institutions and in real estate transactions.