August 8, 2013

The fact that estate planning is of paramount importance to every American is nothing new. Although it may be uncomfortable to consider your eventual death, a good, updated estate plan is the only way to make sure that your loved ones are cared for after you are gone. As a recent article emphasizes, estate planning is vital no matter how big or small your estate is.

One important part of estate planning is integrating your bank accounts into your estate plan. As business integration executive Ally Bank explains, “Many people often overlook the importance of incorporating their bank accounts into their estate planning strategy.” One way to achieve this integration is to set up an account for trust.

There are several benefits of establishing an account for trust. First, the trust account helps a person to ensure that their beneficiaries are cared for in the future through the assets in the trust. Second, a trust account may reduce a person’s estate tax liability. Third, trusts do not go through the process of probate. Finally, if your account is at a Member FDIC bank, it is insured up to a minimum of $250,000.

If you are considering a bank account for trust, consider accounts that offer competitive interest rates and do not have minimum fees or minimum balances. Visit several financial institutions to determine which institution and type of account is best for you.