Protecting What Matters: Your Loved Ones, Your Animals, Your Wishes
Estate Planning & Charitable Giving Webinar – Recording & Key Takeaways
Thank you to everyone who joined us for NCAL’s Estate Planning & Charitable Giving Webinar. If you weren’t able to attend live or would like to revisit the discussion, you can watch the full recording now.
Watch the recorded webinar:
Key Takeaways from Our Experts
Put a Team Together
- Estate planning works best when subject matter experts collaborate.
- Estate attorneys often work alongside financial advisors and philanthropic advisors to help clients realize their vision.
Go Beyond Just a Will
- Consider a comprehensive estate plan instead of relying solely on a will.
- This may include an irrevocable trust, living trust, power of attorney, and advanced directives.
- Benefits include avoiding costly probate and ensuring someone can act on your behalf immediately.
Ask the Right Questions Up Front
Before your first meeting with an estate attorney, ask yourself: “Why am I here?” and build around that.
Good starter questions for your attorney:
- Can you help me fund the trust?
- Does your firm have experience with assets like real estate, investments, or property titles?
- What am I getting for the fee I pay?
- How long will it take to complete the plan?
- How will you assure me that your firm will still be here when my plan needs to be executed?
Understand QCDs (Qualified Charitable Distributions)
- For individuals aged 70½ or older, a QCD allows direct donations from an IRA to a charity.
- QCDs can satisfy part or all of your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD).
- RMD ages depend on your birth year:
- Before July 1, 1949: age 70½
- Born in 1950: age 72
- Born 1951–1959: age 73
- Born 1960 and beyond: age 75
Plan for Your Pets Too
- Pet Trusts can ensure your pets are cared for if you pass away or become disabled.
- Any estate attorney who handles trusts can help set this up.
Ready to take the next step?
If you’re ready to begin planning, we encourage you to connect directly with the experts who generously shared their time and knowledge during our webinar. They can help answer your questions, guide you through the next steps, and ensure your wishes are honored for your loved ones, your animals, and your community.
