Complete Estate Planning

Lending money to a child is common, whether it's for buying a home, starting a business, or getting through a tough financial patch. But when it comes time to plan your estate, that unpaid loan can create real complications. Should you forgive the debt when you die? Or treat it as an advance on that child’s inheritance and reduce what they receive? An estate plan will utilize two primary approaches to resolving these loans, and we’ll discuss the pros and cons to each. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: ⚖️ The pros and cons of forgiving vs. equalizing through inheritance 📜 Why documentation and clarity in your estate plan are essential 🤝 Avoiding family conflict with open communication and planning 🧾 The importance of promissory notes and written records Our website: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/ Phone: 513-463-6789 Contact our team: [email protected] Schedule your no-cost consultation: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/ Join us for our next workshop: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/workshops/ Check out our free resources here: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/free-resources/ Check us out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf3WXpR0a-tMvimbMT_lkMA?sub_confirmation=1

What happens when your name is on a parent’s bank account or home as a co-owner, yet their will says everything should be split among the three siblings? That’s the situation we’re addressing in this video to help the co-owner understand what options you have when it comes to splitting the inheritance up. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 🏠 What happens when you're a co-owner on a parent’s bank account or home 🛡️ How to avoid family conflict with a clear, customized estate plan Our website: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/ Phone: 513-463-6789 Contact our team: [email protected] Schedule your no-cost consultation: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/ Join us for our next workshop: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/workshops/ Check out our free resources here: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/free-resources/ Check us out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf3WXpR0a-tMvimbMT_lkMA?sub_confirmation=1

Even if you’re planning to leave everything to just one person, like an only child, it might feel like you don’t need an estate plan. After all, what could be simpler than passing everything on to a single heir? But estate planning isn’t just about how many people you’re leaving assets to. It’s about how you leave things, making sure your wishes are honored, minimizing complications, and protecting both you and your heir. In this episode, we unpack why an estate plan is still essential, even when you have only one heir, and explore the smart, simple, and safe ways to pass on your assets. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: ⚠️ Probate still applies—even with one beneficiary 🏠 Adding your child to the deed or account can cause major problems 🛠️ Tools like TODs and trusts can simplify transfers the right way 🧾 Estate planning also protects you if you become sick or incapacitated Our website: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/ Phone: 513-463-6789 Contact our team: [email protected] Schedule your no-cost consultation: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/ Join us for our next workshop: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/workshops/ Check out our free resources here: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/free-resources/ Check us out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf3WXpR0a-tMvimbMT_lkMA?sub_confirmation=1

What happens when you have assets in your name but you don’t really consider them yours? It’s not that uncommon to work with people who need to account for things like a parent’s home or a child’s bank account in their estate plan. In this episode, Nick answers a listener’s question about how to handle assets that fall into this category while avoiding confusion in the future. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: ⚠️ Legal & Tax Risks – The hidden dangers of holding assets for others 🔄 How to Fix Ownership Issues – Steps to clean up your financial situation 📜 Avoiding Probate & Inheritance Conflicts – Why proper planning is crucial Our website: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/ Phone: 513-463-6789 Contact our team: [email protected] Schedule your no-cost consultation: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/ Join us for our next workshop: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/workshops/ Check out our free resources here: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/free-resources/ Check us out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf3WXpR0a-tMvimbMT_lkMA?sub_confirmation=1

A well-drafted trust should protect your assets, ensure your wishes are followed, and make things easier for your loved ones. However, even estate planning attorneys can make mistakes that lead to costly problems. In this episode, we’ll cover four major mistakes attorneys make when drafting trusts—so you can recognize and avoid them in your own estate plan. Here’s some of what we cover: ✅ Fund Your Trust: Unfunded trusts force assets into probate. 🔄 Plan for the What-Ifs: Backup trustees & beneficiaries are essential. 📆 Review Regularly: Life changes & tax laws can impact your trust. 👨‍👩‍👧 Customize Your Plan: One-size-fits-all trusts don’t work for unique families. 0:00 – Today’s question 1:51 – Coaching update 6:10 – Failing to Properly Fund the Trust 10:14 – Contingency Planning 14:55 – Reviewing and Updating the Trust 17:12 – Generic Planning 20:17 – Our process Our website: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/ Phone: 513-463-6789 Contact our team: [email protected] Schedule your no-cost consultation: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/ Join us for our next workshop: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/workshops/ Check out our free resources here: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/free-resources/ Check us out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf3WXpR0a-tMvimbMT_lkMA?sub_confirmation=1

When it comes to children’s inheritance, should they all receive their share at the same time, or should each child wait until they reach a specific age? In this episode of Complete Estate Planning, Nick answers a common question: Is it fair for older children to receive their inheritance while younger siblings wait? Here are some of the key topics we’ll cover: 💰 Should all kids inherit at the same time? Pros & cons of different approaches ⚖️ Fair vs. equal: Why these aren’t always the same in estate planning 🔄 Partial distributions: A smart way to balance fairness & financial maturity 📜 Real-life examples: How other families have structured their children’s inheritance 0:00 – Today’s question 0:47 – Common scenarios 2:37 – What are your options? 5:40 – Most common approach Our website: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/ Phone: 513-463-6789 Contact our team: [email protected] Schedule your no-cost consultation: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/ Join us for our next workshop: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/workshops/ Check out our free resources here: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/free-resources/ Check us out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf3WXpR0a-tMvimbMT_lkMA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CincinnatiEstatePlan/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rosenbauer-law-office-llc/

One of the biggest decisions a married couple faces when setting up an estate plan is whether to create a joint trust or separate trusts. The right choice depends on several factors, including how they manage their finances, asset ownership, and estate planning goals. In this episode, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each option and discuss when a joint trust makes sense versus when separate trusts are the better choice. A joint trust can be ideal for couples with shared finances and assets, simplifying estate management. On the other hand, separate trusts offer more flexibility and protection, particularly for couples with different financial situations, blended families, or distinct estate goals. We’ll break down the key scenarios for each choice and provide insight into how your specific needs can influence the right decision. Here’s what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:39 – Show update 4:37 – Joint trust 7:17 – Separate trust 11:25 – What do clients choose? 13:31 – Can you change after? 16:57 – Key takeaways 💻Our website: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/ ☎️Phone: 513-463-6789 📱Contact our team: [email protected] ⏰Schedule your no-cost consultation: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/ 🗓Join us for our next workshop: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/workshops/ 📚Check out our free resources here: https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/free-resources/ Check us out on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCf3WXpR0a-tMvimbMT_lkMA Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CincinnatiEstatePlan/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rosenbauer-law-office-llc/

We talk a lot about estate planning on this show, but what about the other side of the equation- inheritance? Today, we’re diving into how people screw it up. There are plenty of ways to go wrong, but we’re breaking down the five biggest mistakes Nick sees people make when they receive an inheritance. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Many people start out with a will, but is there a time when it makes sense to upgrade to a trust? Is it possible, and what does that process look like? We’ll walk you through the steps, share when it might be the right time to make the switch, and explain how to make it happen in today's show. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Understanding whether a Special Needs Trust is necessary can be complex, especially if your child isn’t receiving Social Security Disability benefits. In this episode, we explore the purpose of Special Needs Trusts, how they work, and why they might still be a crucial part of your financial plan. Don't miss these valuable insights to help secure your child’s long-term care and financial stability. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Estate planning covers a wide range of scenarios, and most often, it involves taking care of your family or spouse. But what happens if you’re not married and still want to ensure your partner is provided for? In this episode, we’ll explore key considerations, differences, and arrangements to keep in mind when planning for such situations. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes the unexpected can happen. Today, we’re discussing a tough scenario: what if you undergo surgery and don’t make it? Tune in as we explore key estate planning precautions you can take to prepare for such situations. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

What happens when your spouse passes away? What comes next? In today's show, we'll discuss some important action steps to take, key estate planning documents to review, beneficiary designations to consider, and much more. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

How many 'what-ifs' do you need within your estate plan? In this episode, we’ll dive into the importance of contingencies in estate planning and walk you through the step-by-step process Nick and his team follow to ensure every detail is covered. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

We’re always talking about how important it is to have an estate planning attorney. But what if your attorney is actually screwing some things up? Today, we’re diving into 8 ways they might be getting it wrong. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Are you considering tackling your estate plan on your own? While it's certainly possible, the dangers of DIY estate planning often hide beneath the surface. In today's episode, we're going to bring some of those issues to the forefront and share why working with an estate planning attorney is well worth it. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

As the election approaches, many are wondering how the outcome might affect their finances and taxes- but have you thought about your estate plan? In this episode, Nick covers some of the potential estate planning implications of both candidates and what their policies could mean for you. Tune in to stay informed and prepared. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

You’ve established your estate plan- does that mean you’re all set? Not quite! Regularly reviewing and updating your estate plan is important. But when should you do this? In today’s episode, we’ll discuss some key moments in life that call for updates and guide you through the regular review process. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Is privacy a concern for you in estate planning? In this episode, we dive into essential strategies to protect both your family's confidentiality and your estate. Tune in to learn how proactive planning can shield your family from the public eye and avoid complications down the road. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

In today’s episode, we’re breaking down the differences between two types of power of attorney: springing and immediate. What sets them apart? And why might choosing an immediate power of attorney be the smarter option for you? Stay tuned to find out! Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Most people want to leave their money to their children. But what happens if the primary beneficiary isn’t around to receive it? In that case, the gift lapses and a backup beneficiary is designated. A common question is whether to name your child’s spouse as the backup beneficiary. In today’s episode, Nick will explore some of the pros and cons of this decision. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

When it comes to estate planning, one of the biggest concerns is taxes. What will be owed? How will these taxes be paid? How much can actually be passed along to your heirs? Join us as we dive into the various taxes trustees and executors need to be aware of when settling an estate. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

When it's time to settle an estate and start selling off assets, you might have friends and family looking for good deals. But is it wise to make deals? How should you go about selling these assets? What’s the best way to document and transfer everything? Today on Complete Estate Planning, we'll break down these questions and offer some important considerations. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

In today's episode, we're talking about passing down valuable assets such as family businesses and farms. Whether you're unsure how to divide your estate among multiple children or want to ensure your legacy is preserved, this episode is for you. We'll explore key considerations, essential questions, and how Nick goes about this with his clients. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

In this episode, we're exploring two different paths you can take when designating benefits. We focus on the pros and cons of itemizing individual accounts versus dividing a percentage of your entire estate. We also look at how each approach can impact your financial legacy. Tune in as we break down these strategies to help you choose the best path for your estate planning goals. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

One of our favorite ways to bring you estate planning education on the show is by answering your questions! In today's episode, Rich asks about the annual limits for tax-free gifting, gifting to trusts with protections, and common mistakes regarding estate and lifetime GST tax returns. Elaine asks for advice on leaving a portion of her IRA to her new spouse while ensuring that her children receive whatever remains. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

The recent passing of O.J. Simpson has stirred up a legal storm that we're going to unpack in today's episode. Simpson's estate is a convoluted web of trusts, lawsuits, and debts that Nick will try to help us untangle from an estate planning perspective. He'll also take us through the possible scenarios that could unfold as the estate proceedings continue. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Last episode, we started a special two-part series where Nick guided us through the steps involved when someone passes away. We're here to finish up this discussion today. Listen in as Nick talks about what it looks like to settle a trust after death in Ohio. Although trusts can vary widely in complexity depending on the terms of the document, this episode will give you a good idea of how settling a trust differs from the probate process. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

We've talked about probate here on the show before, but what does the process look like from start to finish? Join us for a special two-part series, where Nick will guide us through the steps involved when someone passes away. In this episode, we'll outline the key stages of the probate process (based in Ohio). Don't miss our next episode, where Nick will walk through the process of settling a trust! Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Our podcast listeners frequently send in questions for Nick. In today's show, we've chosen a few questions to chat about on the air. For example, one listener asks if they need an estate plan since they're single, childless, and have a financially independent family. Another asks if there is a way to assist their aging mother with her finances without entirely removing her independence through estate planning. Stay tuned for some valuable insights here on Complete Estate Planning! Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

You've probably heard the old saying, "What you don't know can't hurt you." But when it comes to inheritance conversations with your children, that isn't entirely true. Stay tuned as we share some crucial considerations for navigating these estate-planning conversations with your loved ones. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

With home prices continuing to climb, a house ends up being the most valuable asset for many families. However, it can also be the most difficult to deal with in an inheritance after someone passes away. One of the biggest issues people run into is the owner passing away while the house still has a mortgage or a line of credit against it. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

The Corporate Transparency Act (which was enacted in January of 2021) has taken effect as of January 2024. Under the new law, small businesses have new disclosure and reporting requirements with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. This law is retroactive and includes businesses that were already in existence BEFORE the CTA went into effect. Along with the new requirements, there are significant fines/penalties for being in violation of the law. Listen in as we talk about what you need to know! Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Many people automatically think of how to handle or “plan” for their assets when estate planning comes to mind. However, inheriting someone’s assets is only one piece of the puzzle. This is why someone asking “How much money do I need to have before I create an estate plan?” is always the wrong question. Let’s cover a number of estate planning goals that have nothing to do with someone’s assets. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

An important (and often overlooked) part of estate planning involves arranging for a person to have their medical needs taken care of. This usually involves a combination of appointing a decision maker (your power of attorney agent or surrogate, depending on the state you live in) and using an advanced directive to affirmatively state your wishes. Most states include certain decisions where you can either make the decision yourself or leave the decision to your healthcare decision-maker. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

We have listeners from all over the country reach out and ask us estate planning questions, so we thought it would be helpful to answer some of those questions on the podcast today. One listener asks how to handle partial business ownership interest in a small business. Another listener asks about the most effective and beneficial way to leave a donation to charity upon their passing. Stay tuned to see how Nick answers these questions and more! Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

We’ve spent many episodes discussing how important trust funding is to your estate plan (assuming a trust is a part of your plan). However, the process can be tedious at times. Many attorneys don’t handle the trust funding for the clients (or only provide minimal guidance), which can lead to further trouble. On top of that, various banks, employers, and investment firms can often frustrate clients even further. A good, experienced attorney should be able to navigate clients through any roadblocks, warn them of potential issues, and have options for how to finish the job when issues come up. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Have you ever wondered what happens to assets that you don't have full control over, like stock options or family businesses? Listen in as we chat about the complexities of assets that come with strings attached. What can you do with these while you're alive, and what happens when you're gone? Tune in for those answers and more on today's show! Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Picture this: You leave your lawyer's office after completing your estate planning documents. You might think this is the end of the process, but that's not necessarily the case. Stay tuned as we discuss the arrangements you need to make beyond the legal paperwork to ensure your affairs are in order. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Many couples automatically assume that, after one spouse passes away, the survivor will retain control of everything. Certainly, that is the “default." However, certain factors can complicate matters. Issues of trust, control, blended families, and separate finances mean it is important to understand all of your options before deciding on the best plan. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

In our increasingly interconnected world, it's becoming more common for individuals to own assets not just in their local area but across state lines and even international borders. Join us as we explore this scenario that has been coming up a lot at the Rosenbauer Law Office. Listen in as we discuss the challenges and strategies for effectively handling assets that are far from home. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Over a lifetime, people can accumulate a lot of “stuff”. This can ultiply as families have children and later inherit from parents or grandparents who pass away. While many accounts and assets have a rather “straightforward” process to pass on, some unique, rare, collectible, and/or expensive personal effects require more care in handling. We’ll walk through the various items to consider. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

One of the most important parts of the estate planning process is choosing the right people as “fiduciaries” to handle affairs on your behalf if you get sick or pass away. This can include medical, financial, and legal decisions while living as well as managing your estate (and possibly children) after you are gone. While most understand the need to choose the RIGHT fiduciaries, many plans fall short by not picking ENOUGH of them. So how many backups do you need? Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Once estate planning documents are signed, it is important to keep them both safe AND accessible. Many people do not consider the importance of where to store your documents after they are prepared. One option that some people use is allowing their attorney to store the original documents at their office. Tune in as Nick discusses what this looks like. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Aretha Franklin, known by many as the “Queen of Soul,” died back in 2018. While she has been gone for a number of years, there have been a number of mysteries surrounding her estate. This has included a lawsuit concerning the validity of a handwritten Last Will & Testament that was found after she passed away. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

When thinking about an inheritance, most families visualize individual “shares” for each beneficiary (whether a $ amount or % of the overall estate). For families with children, they very often create equal shares for each child. Sounds fair, right? Well, what would happen if there was a large age difference in the children? Are there ways that can go wrong? Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected] https://cincinnatiestateplan.com/contact/

Lisa Marie Presley (who was the only child of Elvis Presley) died back on January 12 th , 2023. She left behind her mother (Priscilla Presley), and her daughter (Riley Keough). Her son (Benjamin Keough) passed away a couple of years ago. Since her passing, there has been a significant court battle over Lisa’s estate plan. We did a previous podcast when the legal battle first began. Since that time, settlements have been reached. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected]

There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to joint ownership and how it applies to certain situations. In this episode, Nick will be discussing some pitfalls that can happen when there's an asset with joint ownership and why you need a comprehensive estate plan to be fully covered. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected]

When you develop a relationship with any professional in a specific industry, it's common knowledge that you do not have to be close friends in order to work together. But should you at least like the person you're working with? Today, Nick will be discussing why you need to be comfortable with your attorney and some of the different relationship dynamics he sees in his practice. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected]

While there is NEVER a substitute for a complete, well-thought-out estate plan, shortcuts and alternative ways to transfer your assets DO exist. Many types of assets allow beneficiary designations, transfer-on-death or pay-on-death designations, succession plans for businesses, etc. One of the most popular questions that clients often ask is about what to do with real estate. Because real estate is usually one of the most valuable assets that families will ever own, choosing the appropriate way to transfer real estate upon passing is very high risk, high reward. Contact: 513-463-6789 [email protected]