Consider who should inherit your assets, which assets they should inherit, when and how they inherit them and how the assets can be distributed equitably. Your answers will depend on your particular circumstances and will determine the vehicles you use to distribute your assets.

If you own a business, you will need to consider business succession or transfer of ownership. You might pass on your assets in a lump sum or you might consider a trust to benefit your heirs or to foster charitable giving.

Consider all the factors that affect your estate and how you can use various estate tools to reduce estate taxes, provide enough money to reduce estate taxes, provide enough money to meet any liabilities that may exist and ensure that your estate is transferred according to your wishes.

Charitable contributions, life insurance, annual gifting, trusts, family limited partnerships, private foundations, annuities and investments are just some of the tools that can help.