I hosted  this #webinar on May 27th/2014 for Canadians interested in getting their most common questions about wills and estates answered. I had convinced Manitoba lawyer and estate specialist Caroline Kiva to have a 45 -60 minute digital fireside chat. Question and answer style, but NOT as creepy as most politicians 🙂 She did an excellent job answering the following questions…

The Basics

1. What is typically involved in establishing an estate plan?  And which professionals are typically involved?
2. Why do I need a Will and what happens if I die without a Will?
3. For clients who have minor children, are there specific provisions in the Will that need to be addressed?
4. Why do I need a Power of Attorney?

The Nitty Gritty

5. Can you comment on when Joint tenancy is most applicable for clients?
6. How do I transfer assets such as Cottage, Investment Account, Business to the next generation?
7. Briefly what are some points to consider for clients purchasing U.S. real estate?
8. Will there be taxes that may also have to be paid on death?
9. Do you recommend insurance as part of estate planning?

Advanced

1. Recently the 2014 budget announcement indicated a change to the taxation of testamentary trusts.  Can you briefly outline those changes?
2. Can you outline some non-taxable benefits reasons to still consider using testamentary trusts in an estate plan?
3. Can you outline some of the expenses that arise during the administration of an estate?