Second trip down the aisle? Update your estate plan to reflect your second marriage

Description

Abstract: For those in a second marriage, or planning another trip down the aisle, estate planning can be complicated. Besides both the current and the former spouse to consider, there may be children from both marriages. This article explains that one should start the estate planning process by taking an inventory of assets. Then, trusts can provide flexibility in determining how and when wealth will be shared with beneficiaries — but taxes also should be considered. Meanwhile, a sidebar points out that an irrevocable life insurance trust provides instant wealth for children while allowing other assets to be left to one’s spouse.