Courtesy of Mackenzie Investments

Thinking about death and putting off planning your estate — one is difficult and the other is very easy. If they remain ignored, death or incapacity and the absence of estate planning can combine to create a less than ideal situation for your loved ones and beneficiaries. Without careful planning, the administration of your estate may encounter long, painful and avoidable delays. The government could end up collecting more taxes than could have been reduced; and, more significantly, someone, other than yourself, may end up deciding the devolution of your estate.

Every Canadian adult — regardless of financial situation — should have an up-to-date estate plan that outlines the following:

1. Who is responsible for distributing your assets;
2. Who gets what and when they get it;
3. Who will take care of your minor children;
4. Who will manage any trust accounts under your Will; and
5. Who will make financial and medical decisions if you are incapacitated.

To take control of your estate, we suggest the following five steps:

1. Determine your estate planning goals.
2. Consider which estate planning tools fit your situation best.
3. Start raising estate-planning issues with your family.
4. Choose the people you would like to speak for you.
5. Keep your estate plan up to date.

The comments contained herein are a general discussion of certain issues intended as general information only and should not be relied upon as tax or legal advice. Please obtain independent professional advice, in the context of your particular circumstances. This article was produced by Advisor Stream for the benefit of Rick Irwin, Financial Advisor at Trinity Wealth Partners, a registered trade name with Investia Financial Services Inc. The information contained in this article does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Investia Financial Services Inc. and comes from sources we believe reliable, but we cannot guarantee its accuracy or reliability. The opinions expressed are based on an analysis and interpretation dating from the date of publication and are subject to change without notice. Furthermore, they do not constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities.
Mutual Funds, approved exempt market products and/or exchange traded funds are offered through Investia Financial Services Inc. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Please read the simplified prospectus before investing. Mutual funds are not guaranteed and are not covered by the Canada Deposit Insurance Corporation or by any other government deposit insurer. There can be no assurances that the fund will be able to maintain its net asset value per security at a constant amount or that the full amount of your investment in the fund will be returned to you. Fund values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated. Investia is not liable and/or responsible for any non-mutual fund related business and/or services.
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