Estate Planning Posts

What Do I Do With My Possessions When I Die?

Washington State law provides for the disposition of personal property like dishes, silverware and other family heirlooms in wills or trust documents. However, a recent article in the Seattle Times discusses a cultural and social change to consider when planning your estate  – younger family members are now less inclined to want family heirlooms when […]

What Can I Do With My Body After I Die?

You may have heard that Washington just passed a new law that allows human composting (officially called “natural organic reduction”). This law also allows another option called hydro cremation (officially called “alkaline hydrolysis”). This means we now have four options for disposing of our remains in Washington that include: burial, cremation, composting, and hydro cremation. […]

You’re A Widow. Now What?

Losing your spouse is devastating. It is important to reach out for professional advice on estate planning and financial management during this challenging time. Check out this article from the New York Times regarding estate planning and management after the loss of a spouse. Feel free to reach out to any of our Estate Planning […]

Anton Cauthorn: C2019 Washington Estate Tax Exemption Released

Every year, both the federal and Washington estate tax exemptions are increased based on inflation. Here are the updated numbers for 2019: 2018 2019 Washington Estate Tax Exemption $2,193,000 $2,261,000 Federal Estate Tax Exemption $11,180,000 $11,400,000 Annual Federal Gift Tax Exclusion $15,000 $15,000   Estate taxes are only paid by people whose total estate value […]

Do I need an Attorney to Draft my Will?

  Can you save money by using software to draft a DIY (do-it-yourself) will instead of paying an attorney? Technically, yes, you can draft your own will and save money, now. However, what you save now may cost your family far more in the long run. Although you can save money by drafting your own […]