Leaving assets to heirs

Your estate is a legacy. These resources can help make the estate planning process more efficient and effective, and one that respects your wishes.

Keep in mind:

Consider contingencies (for example, what happens if a primary heir can't receive the bequest)
Understand potential tax liabilities
Address your philanthropic goals

See the checklist

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What you need to know about your will

Learn about different types of wills and what to consider when your will is being drafted.

Protect your assets with a trust

Trusts can help ensure that your assets are used according to your wishes — and may help to reduce estate taxes.

Should you give your kids an early inheritance?

Making gifts to your children now, instead of in your will, can be satisfying. Here are things to consider.

Make philanthropy an important part of your estate planning

Learn how charitable gifts can be used to manage taxes, shift assets and transfer wealth.

Estate planning checklist

Review estate planning basics and related planning tools like wills, estate taxes and trusts.

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Estate Tax Calculator

Estimate what your estate tax liability might be.

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Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

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Investing in securities involves risks, and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest in securities.

Asset allocation, diversification, and rebalancing do not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets.

Merrill, its affiliates, and financial advisors do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. You should consult your legal and/or tax advisors before making any financial decisions.

This material is not intended as a recommendation, offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or investment strategy. Merrill offers a broad range of brokerage, investment advisory (including financial planning) and other services. Additional information is available in our Client Relationship Summary (PDF).

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