Planning for what happens to your assets after you’re gone can be uncomfortable—but it’s one of the most important financial steps you can take to protect your family. Estate planning ensures that your wishes are carried out, your loved ones are taken care of, and unnecessary taxes and legal battles are avoided.

At Family Asset Planner in Canton, Ohio, we help families create estate plans that offer peace of mind, clarity, and a lasting legacy.

What Is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is the process of organizing your financial affairs and legally specifying how your assets will be distributed after death or incapacitation. It typically includes:

• Wills

• Trusts

• Power of attorney

• Health care directives

• Beneficiary designations

• Tax and probate planning

It’s not just for the wealthy—every family can benefit from an estate plan.

Why Estate Planning Matters

Without a proper plan:

• The state decides who gets your assets (which may not align with your wishes).

• Your family may face delays, legal expenses, and probate court.

• Minor children could end up with guardians you didn’t choose.

• Estate taxes could reduce the inheritance you leave behind.

With a thoughtful estate plan, you stay in control, even when you’re no longer here.

Key Elements of a Strong Estate Plan

1. Will

A will outlines who should receive your assets and who will take care of any minor children. It’s the foundation of your estate plan and should be reviewed every few years or after major life events.

2. Trust

A trust allows you to manage how your assets are distributed—while avoiding probate. There are many types of trusts, including:

• Revocable Living Trusts

• Irrevocable Trusts

• Special Needs Trusts

• Charitable Trusts

Trusts are especially helpful for high-net-worth families or those with complex wishes.

3. Power of Attorney

This legal document gives someone you trust the ability to manage your finances or make legal decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to.

4. Health Care Directive / Living Will

This states your medical care preferences and names someone to make health decisions for you if you’re incapacitated.

5. Beneficiary Designations

Certain assets like retirement accounts and life insurance policies bypass your will and go directly to the named beneficiaries. Make sure these are up to date and consistent with your broader plan.

6. Estate Tax Strategy

If your estate is large, you may owe federal or state estate taxes. Working with a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) can help minimize this burden through gifting, trusts, and other planning tools.

Family Conversations Are Just as Important

Estate planning is about more than documents—it’s about communication. We encourage families to have open conversations about their values, expectations, and wishes to avoid misunderstandings or family disputes later on.

Why Choose Family Asset Planner?

At Family Asset Planner, we guide you through every step of the estate planning process with compassion and clarity. Located in Canton, Ohio, we work closely with estate attorneys, tax professionals, and families to build plans that reflect your life, goals, and legacy.

What we offer:

• Fiduciary financial planning

• Coordination with estate attorneys

• Custom strategies for tax reduction and asset protection

• Experience in multi-generational wealth planning

Protect What Matters Most—Start Your Estate Plan Today
Phone: 888-222-1286
Website: familyassetplanner.com
Address: Canton, Ohio 44708