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Are there different types of pre-need arrangements?
As opposed to at-need arrangements, when the death has already occurred, there are several reasons why families choose to make pre-need arrangements. Often, when a loved one is in a terminal state, and a family is referred to a hospice care, pre-need arrangements are made. Though the reality of the impending loss is very difficult to adjust to, the funeral director will gently guide the family in planning the funeral. A family in this situation will have the option to place the funds into a trust account at this time.
There are two types of trust accounts, irrevocable and revocable. Both types of trust accounts can be transferred from one funeral home to another. Pre- need trust accounts in a majority of cases are irrevocable. This is as a result of an individual requiring long term care, and is at the point of applying for Medicaid coverage. An irrevocable trust account can only be used for the funeral of the beneficiary of the trust account. The trust account can be transferred to another funeral home, but can never be revoked. A certified death certificate of the beneficiary is the only way the funds can be obtained. A prudent individual, not needing Medicaid, can also establish a pre- need arrangement and place the funds into a revocable trust account for themselves or another family member.
Legal Issues
Wills, probate, joint property, estate taxes, selecting estate trustees/attorneys for property and personal care and other issues may appear somewhat intimidating at first. Fortunately, with a little guidance and preparation, dealing with such matters does not have to be so overwhelming.
Administration of a Will
A Will is an instrument by which a person
(the “testator”) makes a disposition of his/her property, to be performed or take effect after his or her death. A well-drafted Will may provide for the welfare of the testator’s family, distribute the testator’s assets in accordance with his/her wishes and secure the efficient management of the testator’s property. Handwritten Wills (“holographic Wills”) can be made by a testator without the services of a lawyer, problems can arise if not done properly and/or in accordance with applicable legislation. A properly drafted Will can be a simple, inexpensive way to address many estate-related matters, and can make matters run much smoother upon death.
While there are many benefits to having a Will in place, there are some things that may not be accomplished in a Will. It is important to keep in mind that some items may not flow through your estate, and thus may not be distributed in accordance with your Will. During the estate planning process it is important to speak with a lawyer experienced in such matters and knowledgeable of your unique situation. A well designed estate plan can help minimize probate (and other) taxes, and can alert you to any potential statutory claims that may impact your ability to deal with your assets as intended.
A lawyer can discuss any potential claims that a “dependant may have under Law, and or with respect to any potential claims or entitlements. An awareness of such responsibilities and rights can help prevent unintended consequences or surprises upon death.
In addition to certain statutory claims, there are other legal limitations that must be considered when drafting a Will. Documents such as a marriage or a cohabitation agreement, a separation agreement, or a shareholders agreement (with buy/sell provisions, or option agreements) may also affect your Will
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