Why TOD & Joint Ownership Estate Plans Fail (And How a Trust Fixes It) | Repair The Roof Podcast

👉Get started on your estate plan—watch our, on-demand workshop: https://www.daytonestateplanninglaw.com/how-to-not-go-broke-in-a-nursing-home-even-if-you-think-its-too-late/

Attorney Ted Gudorf discusses the common pitfalls of simple estate planning methods such as Transfer on Death (TOD) designations and joint ownership. He explains how these approaches can lead to financial disaster for families, highlighting the lack of backup plans, potential for unequal inheritances, and complications during incapacity. Gudorf advocates for revocable living trusts as a superior solution that addresses these issues, providing comprehensive asset management and protection for beneficiaries. He shares real-life examples to illustrate the consequences of poor planning versus the benefits of a well-structured trust.

Takeaways

• Your current setup is a ticking time bomb.
• TOD designations usually don't have a backup plan.
• Minor beneficiaries gain full control at age 18.
• No one is in charge of coordinating your affairs.
• Joint ownership can lead to loss of control.
• Your asset becomes vulnerable to co-owner's problems.
• Joint ownership creates significant tax problems.
• Unequal inheritances can tear families apart.
• A trust centralizes all of your assets under one plan.
• Asset alignment is crucial for your estate plan.

Resources:

• Gudorf Law Group
• The Ohio Estate Planning Guide - Free Book
• Gudorf Law: What We Do and How We Help Webinar
• Don't Go Broke in Nursing Home Workshop
• When a Loved One Dies: A Legal Guide - Free Book
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