June 12, 2017

Most people who understand the basics of asset protection probably have a revocable trust that can be easily changed and will eliminate the need for probate or naming a guardian in the event that you become incapacitated or pass away. However, leaving this as your primary mode of asset protection is risky. This type of trust does not necessarily offer any additional protection against your creditors over the course of your life or after it. This critical lack of protection could make a big difference if you suddenly need money for long term care and you could be exposing your non-liquid assets to significant risk. 

Given that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services identified that the average cost of long-term care is $138,000 per individual and that 50% of people in the United States will need assistance to meet their long-term care goals after age 65, it’s important to take a long-range view of asset protection as well. Just one negative asset protection event could jeopardize the entire structure of decades of financial planning.

Thinking ahead often requires the insight of an experienced professional like a knowledgeable asset protection planning attorney. With so many things to think about, you don’t want to be caught unaware when it comes to your financial decisions. Just one lawsuit could jeopardize what you have worked so hard to build.

Proper asset protection planning and business planning is the next crucial step for helping families adjust for the rising costs of long-term care. Remember that it can take years for asset protection planning to be effective so it’s a process you need to engage with early and after consulting with a knowledgeable lawyer about.