Securing Your Children's Future with Life Insurance Strategies

At Wilson & Wilson Estate Planning and Elder Law LLC, we understand that one of your top priorities is ensuring the financial security of your children in the event of your untimely passing. Life insurance can be a vital component of safeguarding your legacy and providing for their future. Below, we explore key considerations for incorporating life insurance into your estate planning.

It's natural for parents to worry about the well-being of their children should something happen to them. Life insurance is often the first solution that comes to mind. However, before investing in a policy, it is crucial to evaluate your actual need for life insurance, the optimal policy type, and how the policy proceeds will be managed for your children's benefit.

Before you commit to a life insurance policy, consider all potential income sources that would be available to your children in your absence, such as:

• Assets you may leave behind
• Social Security survivors benefits
• Potential support from extended family members

If your estate or relatives can comfortably provide for your children, life insurance may be less critical. On the other hand, for many families, life insurance is an affordable safety net that addresses the possibility of a parent's premature death.

While various life insurance policies exist, such as whole life, universal life, and variable life, these can be costly and offer benefits that may not align with your immediate goals. Term insurance often makes the most sense for young, healthy parents. It provides substantial coverage at a lower cost and secures immediate funds for your children if needed, without excessive current financial strain.

It is imperative to have a structure in place for how life insurance proceeds will be managed on behalf of your children, should they be minors at the time of your passing. Without this, a court-appointed guardian would assume control, leading to potential legal expenses and complications. To avoid this, consider the following options:

• Designate a trustworthy adult as the policy beneficiary to manage the funds for your children.
• Assign an adult custodian under your state's Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) to manage the policy's benefits, as permitted by most insurance companies.
• If you have a living trust, name the trustee as the beneficiary, detailing within the trust how any insurance proceeds will be managed and disbursed to your children.

When it comes to selecting between UTMA custodianship and a child's trust for managing life insurance benefits, key distinctions include:

• Age of financial independence: UTMA requires transfer of funds at a legal age limit, while a trust allows you to set a specific age.
• Tax implications: Trust income is taxed at a higher rate, whereas UTMA funds are taxed at the child's individual rate.
• Administrative ease: UTMA often offers a more streamlined approach, recognized by financial institutions.

UTMA custodianships are generally suitable for amounts below $100,000, which are often quickly utilized for education and living expenses. For substantial insurance proceeds, or if you wish to extend financial oversight beyond the UTMA age limit, a child's trust may be more appropriate.

Wilson & Wilson Estate Planning and Elder Law LLC is here to guide you through these important decisions. We provide comprehensive advice on life insurance options and the incorporation of children's trusts into your estate plan, ensuring your intentions are clear and your family is protected.

For knowledgeable guidance and peace of mind, contact us today at (708) 482-7090 for a Consultation and let our insight in estate and elder law help secure your family’s future.