|
|
Estate planning basicsBy David G. Hallauer Meadowlark District Extension agent, crops and soils/horticulture Estate planning (one outsider's definition)--one of those sort of 'uncomfortable' topics that children and their parents try to discuss, usually somewhat unsuccessfully and seldom with much resolution. Sound like your family situation? All too often, one of the greatest challenges following someone's passing is settling the estate. Combine settlement of that estate with the grief of that recent loss, and a recipe for a little trouble is in the making. Estate planning doesn't always have to be a difficult process, however, it just has to be planned. While not an end all discussion, an encouraging and simplified 'read' on the topic of estate planning was included in the August Kansas Farm Management Association newsletter (http:/www.agmanager.info/KFMA--newsletters link from the left hand column). In it, KSU Farm Management Association economist Craig Althauser gives a brief overview of what an estate plan is and who needs one. He also touches on wills, living trusts, durable power of attorney, and even a brief bit on legislation. It doesn't have answers for every unique situation, but it gives some basics to think about towards getting a plan for your estate in place. Your estate plan may well become quite complicated before it's all over with. Rather than letting your heirs struggle through it when you aren't around anymore to assist in guiding them, give some thought now to how you want your estate to be handled when you are gone. They may not think much about it at the time, but it will be one of the greatest gifts you can pass on. Brown recluse spiders I don't like them. Brown recluse spiders give me the shivers. I especially hate seeing the itty bitty babies scurrying for a hiding place after I thought I'd made a pretty good effort to get rid of them. But they're still there, so I might as well learn how best to live with them, right? Dr. Bob Bauernfeind, KSU entomologist recently shared some interesting information on BRS and their management. It's excellent information that may help you feel a little more comfortable with them in your presence (and I'm guessing they're in your presence whether you know it or not) and will certainly help you keep them at bay.
Copyright/Privacy
Copyright 1995-2011. High Plains Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved. Any republishing of these pages, including electronic reproduction of the editorial archives or classified advertising, is strictly prohibited. If you have questions or comments you can reach us at High Plains Journal 1500 E. Wyatt Earp Blvd., P.O. Box 760, Dodge City, KS 67801 or call 1-800-452-7171. Email: webmaster@hpj.com |
|
