Contact the Attorney General’s Public Inquiry Unit to report a complaint about a business or if you have questions or comments.
Why is a will still included in the components of an estate plan?
If you die without a Will or Trust, then your estate is "intestate" and it will have to be distributed according to the California Probate Code - California's default distribution scheme. In California, assets acquired during a marriage may be considered community property and may pass to the surviving spouse when one spouse dies. For co-owned assets, such as a joint account, the asset (e.g., the balance of the funds) usually passes to the co-owner when one owner dies.
The main components of an estate plan include a revocable living trust, a pour-over will, a durable power of attorney for finances, and an advance health care directive. Assets like retirement accounts (401k, IRA) and life insurance policies pass directly to the beneficiaries you name with the financial institution. This document lets you legacy planning for families appoint a trusted "agent" to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. It "pours over" any assets you forgot to transfer into the trust. It’s a legal entity that holds your assets (home, bank accounts, investments

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Virtue Wealth Management is a trusted, fee-only fiduciary financial advisor in Santa Clarita, CA. Through the highs & lows of markets and global shifts, we've always had the peace of mind knowing that EPW has our best interests in view and protects our investments with our long-term retirement plans in mind."1 The entire team consistently provides detailed explanations based on the depth of their knowledge with the financial markets."1 I could not be happier with EP and honestly recommend to anyone looking for an investing partner to at least meet w the local team."5 I have 100% confidence that my advisors at EP Wealth have my best interests at the forefront of all decisions made."3 We appreciate the experience, the honesty, and the clear communication..."7
People who have a plan and are moving towards their legacy planning for families goals feel less stress and financial worry. We feel truly fortunate to have come across his information! I’ve learned so much from him and the financial plan he prepared for our family, and it’s made a real difference in how I manage my personal finances. His responsiveness and clarity made the entire process feel smooth and stress-free. Their approach is tailored to fit my unique personal and financial goals, making the process not only manageable but also empowering. Erick and his team provided me with a personalized financial plan that has kept me on track towards achieving financial freedom.
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Is your money really aligned with what’s important in your life? In fact, you can get a free review of your account and we’ll explain how we would manage it as your financial advisor. Any type of account whether Traditional IRA, Roth IRA or a non-retirement account, we’ve got you covered. They might have had a bad experience with another financial advisor or a fi


We can also help you plan financially for the unexpected should you be unable to make financial and medical decisions for yourself. Estate planning is all about leaving the financial legacy you want to those that are most important to you.
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Many clients have clear intentions for their estate, but struggle with how to communicate those plans to their family. Today’s estates often include more than real estate or investment accounts. This includes reviewing how trusts, insurance, and liquidity planning may be used to reduce tax exposure or prepare for future ownership changes. Our charitable giving services are designed to integrate seamlessly with your broader planning strategy, in collaboration with attorneys, CPAs, and other members of your advisory team. If you're ready to take the next step, you can find an advisor in your area to start the conversation. Every estate plan reflects a unique combination of goals, assets, and family relationships.
Edward Jones Trust Company as a trustee
For example, your estate plan should include advanced healthcare directives and a healthcare proxy so that, if you become incapacitated, someone you trust can make medical decisions as per your wishes. We want to ensure that your financial plan aligns with your long-term tax strategy, so you keep more of what’s yours. From preparing and filing your taxes to providing forward-looking tax advice designed to minimize future tax burdens, we can help yo


He was able to clearly answer all the questions I had and made me feel at ease that he had my best interests in mind. 5 Star Review – Erick and his team are doing a wonderful job of helping me establish a financial plan so I may confidently work toward my goals. "They truly have a vested interest in my financial goals and they take their time going over any questions I may have. "She and her team have managed my finances in ways that have given me some freedom during crushing times with my ex-husband. "We feel so blessed knowing our money is secure and that EP Wealth is proactive in notifying us of opportunities to adjust our portfolio to better serve our needs."17 Integrated support for high net-worth families with complex financial needs, including coordination of investments, planning strategies, and multi-generational considerations that may evolve over tim