Upstate Foundation

Estate Planning Information


Estate planning encompasses the growth, conservation, and transfer of an individual’s wealth through the creation and maintenance of an “estate plan.”  The purpose of estate planning is to develop a strategy that will maintain the financial security of individuals through their lifetime and facilitate the intended transfer of their property and assets at death, while taking into consideration the unique circumstances of the family and the potential costs of different methods.

All too often, we hear:

  • "I'm too young to do estate planning."
  • "All my property is titled in joint tenancy with my spouse so I don't need a will."
  • "Estate planning is only for the super-rich."
  • "Estate planning is too complicated and expensive."
  • "Doesn't the government provide for that?"
  • "We did our wills right after we got married 30 years ago and see no need for further planning."

If you seek advice and guidance with regard to your estate planning needs, please view our website and search for a the type of member that meets your needs.  As an alternative, you can search for an Accredited Estate Planner® (AEP®) or Estate Planning Law Specialist (EPLS) designation holder in your area on the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils website.

Featured Articles

Deals & Moves: Insigneo Recruits; United Planners Gains - Wealth Management

There was plenty of movement among financial advisors ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday week in the United States.

Americans are going into debt over death. Here are affordability tips. - USA Today

Most Americans understand the importance of estate planning, but only ... News Tips Submitting letters to the editor Newsletters Mobile Apps ...

Finance | Avoiding Appalling Fees for Sound Financial Advice - Press Banner | Scotts Valley, CA

LDAs and Legal Zoom competed with lawyers on estate planning while ... News Briefs | Published Nov. 21, 2025. November 21, 2025. Kaila Dettman ...

Midstate financial planning firms merge - Central Penn Business Journal

... News>. Midstate financial planning firms merge. Midstate financial ... estate planning, tax planning, business planning, and charitable giving.

Braun Cathie Kruzel PC Celebrates 22 Consecutive Years of Recognition in Best Law Firms ...

... planning, real estate services, and charitable gift planning. For more ... More News. View More. News headline image. Microsoft's AI ...