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General information 路 Under review

Estate planning

Explore common questions about wills, trusts, nominations and the records that may matter to a family. Legal and tax outcomes depend on individual circumstances and jurisdiction.

Estate planning is handled by independent partner firms. The specific provider and handoff for this page are not yet confirmed. We are not accepting estate-planning requests through this page.

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Topics to understand

Illustration for Wills and registration

Wills and registration

A will can record who should receive assets and who should carry out a person's wishes. Drafting, witnesses and registration need individual legal review.

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Private family trusts

A trust may be considered for some family or asset arrangements. Its control, tax, cost and administration consequences need individual legal and tax review.

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Power of attorney

A power of attorney can authorize another person to act within defined limits. Its wording, validity and safeguards matter, especially across locations.

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Beneficiary nominations

Nominations across accounts, investments and insurance should be reviewed after family changes. A nomination's effect is not always the same as final ownership under succession law.

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Gifts and inheritance tax questions

The treatment of a gift or inheritance depends on the people, assets and jurisdictions involved. Keep transfer records and seek current legal and tax advice.

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Digital assets and records

An inventory of important accounts and documents can help authorized people find them. Access instructions should protect passwords and respect applicable law.

Common questions

Is estate planning only for wealthy families?

Questions about dependants, asset records and future decisions can arise at many asset levels. The right documents depend on the family and local law.

What happens without a will?

Applicable succession law may determine how assets pass. Outcomes depend on the person, family and asset location.

Can a will be changed?

People often review wills after a major life change. How a particular document can be revised needs legal advice and proper execution.

How is a will different from a trust?

They are different legal arrangements for dealing with assets. Control, timing, costs and obligations vary.

How long can estate planning take?

Timing depends on assets, jurisdictions, family decisions and professionals involved. No completion time is promised here.

What if assets or family members are abroad?

Cross-border ownership can involve more than one set of legal and tax rules. Seek advice in each relevant jurisdiction.

This general material has not yet completed source and qualified review. Confirm current rules with the relevant professional before acting.