​Do you plan on leaving an inheritance to your children, grandchildren and other loved ones? If you’re like many retirees, you’ve worked hard to build a career, accumulate assets and raise a family. While it may not be enjoyable to think about your death, an estate can help you pass your legacy on to your family members after you die.
 
Of course, there’s nothing saying you have to wait until your death to distribute your legacy. It may be just as effective for you to give assets away to your family members while you’re still alive. That way, you can see your loved ones put your legacy to use.

​Every business owner has to make an exit at some point. Some owners leave on their own terms, either through retirement or with the sale of the company. Others, though, exit before they’re ready via disability, health issues or even death. While it may not be pleasant to think about the latter category of exits, it’s important to consider what may happen to your business and your family if you pass away.
 
Estate planning can sometimes be a complicated process, but it can be even more complex if you are a business owner. You have to consider how to compensate your family for your years of investment and hard work. You also may have business partners to think about. And you probably want to create a smooth transition for your employees, customers and other interested parties.

​Does your financial plan include a sizable legacy for your loved ones? Do you want to leave assets to fund your grandchildren’s education? Or perhaps you may want to give your grown children a head start on their retirement savings.
 
Whatever your objectives, it’s important to develop a legacy plan that protects your assets and details how your funds will flow to your heirs. That plan should also include an assessment of the risks that could threaten your legacy.