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Answering beneficiary questions when estate planning

On Behalf of | May 15, 2020 | estate planning |

When faced with a situation that one does not have experience with, it is understandable to have questions. It is typically smart to ask questions in uncertain scenarios to ensure that those involved know what is going on. Even with something like estate planning, Maryland beneficiaries would be wise to ensure that they understand how trusts work.

If a parent or other loved one is creating a trust, speaking with the intended beneficiaries is a useful step to take. Beneficiaries could have a number of questions that they would like answered, such as how the trust could affect the beneficiaries in the future. For example, if a beneficiary may receive a significant windfall, making arrangements with a financial planner ahead of time may be wise. On the other hand, it would dispel any incorrect notions that a lot of money was coming a person’s way. This information could help avoid sudden financial disruptions or unrealistic expectations in the future.

Beneficiaries may also want to know who will have access to the trust. It is common for more than one beneficiary to be named to the same trust, and parties may wonder what that will mean for asset distribution. In some cases, siblings could also have other roles associated with the trust than just beneficiary, and it is important to know who is doing what.

Trusts can certainly be a useful estate planning tool, and Maryland parents may want to use them for the benefit of their children’s future. However, if those children do not understand what it means to be a trust beneficiary, they may have expectations that do not meet the reality of the situation. Fortunately, discussing this important matter ahead of time could ensure that those involved fully understand.

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