ECKERT BYRNE’S MAPLE PLAN

The Maple Plan is designed for young families who want peace of mind knowing their children will be cared for if the unexpected happens. It’s an ideal option for parents with minor children (or those hoping to become parents!) who want to name guardians, provide a clear plan for managing inherited assets, and avoid unnecessary probate court involvement.

The Maple is often a good fit for families seeking a practical estate plan that can evolve as their children grow and their financial lives become more complex. It includes essential incapacity planning documents that allow trusted individuals to step in and make financial and healthcare decisions if needed. For families whose primary concerns are protecting their children and establishing a baseline estate plan, rather than addressing estate tax concerns or making specific gifts, the Maple Plan is often a good starting point.

The Maple Plan creates a clear framework for protecting your family and managing your assets. By naming guardians, trustees, and decision-makers in advance, you can ensure that your wishes are carried out and that your children are cared for by people you trust.

The Maple Plan helps avoid probate court supervision over assets inherited by minor children by establishing a trust to hold and manage those assets until they reach age twenty-one. It also simplifies and safeguards the transfer of life insurance proceeds and other beneficiary-designated assets while reducing confusion and administrative burdens during an already difficult time.

• Revocable Living Trust (Individual or Joint)
  • All assets directed to a Common Trust that holds assets for minor children until the youngest child reaches age twenty-one
  • Client chooses Trustee(s) to oversee trust administration process after death
  • Client chooses Trustee(s) to oversee assets held in the Children’s Common Trust until youngest child reaches ages twenty-one
  • Client chooses Trustee(s) to oversee trust assets during periods of incapacity
• Certification of Trust
• Pour Over Will
• Durable Power Of Attorney
• HIPAA Authorization
• Health Care Proxy
• Living Will
• Temporary Guardian Appointment for Minor Children
• General Funding Recommendation Letter for All Asset Types
• Letters of Instructions to Health Care Agents and Guardians