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The Valentine's Gift that Lasts a Lifetime

  • Oppenheimer & Co. Inc.
  • February 10, 2025

Valentine's Day is a celebration of love, and while flowers fade and chocolates disappear, the gift of a well-prepared legacy lasts for generations. This year, show your loved ones just how much they mean to you by creating a plan that secures their future and preserves your values.  

Below are a few tips to help you get started:

Define Your Legacy

  • Clearly outline the principles and values that define your legacy. Consider what impact you want to leave on your family's future.

Coordinate with Legal Documents

  • Align your legacy plan with legal documents like your will and trust. Seek professional advice to ensure that your intentions are legally binding.

Succession Planning Inclusions

  • If your family has businesses or assets to pass down, incorporate succession planning into your plan. Clearly communicate your vision and expectations for a seamless transition.

Nominate Successors and Trustees

  • Designate successors for family businesses, trustees for trusts, and executors for your will. Clearly outline their roles and responsibilities to ensure a smooth transition.

Specify Asset Distribution

  • Outline how you wish your assets to be distributed, including properties, investments, and sentimental items. This clarity minimizes the potential for disputes among heirs.

Address Potential Conflicts

  • Anticipate and address potential conflicts among beneficiaries. Use your plan to offer guidance on conflict resolution, contributing to the long-term harmony of your family.

Professional Involvement

  • Engage legal professionals experienced in estate planning to review and validate the legal aspects of your plan. Their expertise helps avoid potential challenges in the future.

Financial Wisdom Documentation

  • Alongside expressing your wishes, include financial insights and wisdom gained over the years. This can guide your successors in managing and growing their wealth responsibly.

Regular Updates

  • Periodically update your legacy checklist in sync with your legal documents. This guarantees that both reflect your current intentions and desires.

Beyond sentimental gestures, a legacy plan is a powerful act of love. It provides clarity, financial security, and a roadmap for the future, ensuring that your impact extends far beyond your lifetime. By documenting your wishes, safeguarding your assets, and sharing your wisdom, you offer your family something truly priceless: peace of mind and lasting stability.

DISCLOSURE

Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. Transacts Business on all Principal Exchanges and Member SIPC 6257282.1