estate planning

With over half of Americans lacking a will, it's time to think about the future we often avoid. Let’s unpack why this matters now more than ever.

More than 50% of Americans think having an estate planning is at least somewhat important, but only 33% have a will or living trust.  According to AARP’s Sen Voskuhl, estate planning is even more important for farmers as it decides the future of the farm.  Without a goo...

It’s an uncomfortable conversation that doesn’t take place in the farming community nearly enough.  Succession planning.   Joel Packham with the University of Idaho said farmers don’t like to talk about what may happen to the operation after they pass.  But he noted a lack of open an...

Each year that slips by without creating an estate plan increases the risk that all you worked for will end up with someone other than you want. AARP’s Sean Voskuhl said keeping the family farm in the family is hard enough, but becomes even more challenging if you don’t plan for its future. He noted ...

Tax season brings an especially important reminder to the farm: preparing for the future through estate planning.  Sean Voskuhl said as farmers prepare taxes, it’s a good time to start a conversation about the future.   “Tax season is a good time, because you’re already compiling assets, making important business decisions, and preparing for the year on the farm. 57% of U.S. adults don’t h... Read

Like any other commodity, the dairy industry has had its ups and downs.  And for generations, farmers have struggled to find balance during uncertain markets and fluctuating milk prices.  In the past these ups and downs came three-year cycles.   ...

Statistics show more than 60% of Americans don’t have a will, which the AARP points out jeopardizes the future of their estate.  Each year that slips by without a will or estate plan increases the risk of the farm or ranch, and its assets, ending up in the hands of someone other than your family.  The AARP’...

According to AARP, 64% of Americans say they have “not got around” to making a will, leaving any key estate decision out of your family’s hands.  Not getting around to estate planning can leave your family in a mess if they engage in a long, drawn-out fight over the family farm and assets.  The AARP’s Sean Vosk...

Estate Planning is a tough subject.  But having a good succession plan is essential to ensure your operation can continue past your lifetime.  Attorney Pam Olsen encourages ranchers to make a succession plan a top priority if they don’t already have one.   “I thi...

When planning for the future, there are a few key questions you must answer before you can start Estate Planning:     If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com   ...