Trusts for Retirees – Probate Planning

When estate planning, most retirees wish to review strategies to avoid probate fees, which in Ontario are 1.5% of the value of the asset that is distributed via a will. A potential client asked, “Can trusts be used to avoid probate costs when we transfer assets to the next generation?” The answer is yes. For retirees, […]
The Three Estate Buckets

Annually with clients, we review how their estate will be distributed to their beneficiaries. We determine if there are any changes in their desires, or opportunities to save taxes and/or fees. In a recent webinar by Michael Kitces, Mathew Jarvis, a US Financial Advisor, shared a concept he uses with clients called the Estate Buckets. I […]
What do I do if I don’t want to be an executor?

The question that arises occasionally from clients is: Can you turn down the role of an executor if you are named one? Why turn it down? You may not want to be the executor due to family conflict, or the job may be too much for you. So, can you turn the role down? The simple […]
Kicking up Life Lessons and Fun with Football

Assante advisors are part of the fabric of their communities across Canada and they contribute to their local quality of life in a variety of ways.