We have recently completed your 2009 Income Tax Return. In completing your return it was a timely opportunity for us to reflect on some matters we would like to bring to your attention that are not traditionally part of tax advice but are, we feel, nonetheless an important part of managing your financial affairs.

Your Will & Power of Attorney
Have you a will and a power of attorney? If so, is your will and power of attorney up to date?

Our associate, Martin Dubler, is an “Estate Planning” expert. What’s more, for an expert, his services are convenient and economical. He will prepare a simple will for you by email if you don’t have time to meet with him. Martin will also meet with you at home where family members can be present if that suits. If your estate is likely to be more involved due to business interests, multiple children or even multiple marriages / partners Martin can also advise you on tax effective and asset protective wills and draft an estate plan for your beneficiaries that shows them the array of options available to them at the time of inheritance. You should ask Martin about the benefits of a ‘Testamentary trust’ that will enable children to access adult tax rates in the event of inheritance.

If you would like to speak to Martin Dubler about your will then contact him on 0425 217 943 or martindubler@optusnet.net.au

Your Personal Insurances
You may have also heard the saying, “I’m worth more dead than alive!”. Well this holds very true if you have appropriate insurances in place at the time of death.

As accountants there is nothing worse than financially extricating a bereaved spouse from a business – especially if your spouse had little to do with the day to day business affairs. It’s also usually a reality that business partners don’t want to be left in business with a spouse. There are ways to ensure that you provide for your family if you can’t work due to death, traumatic illness or total permanent disablement. Your kids can continue their education and your spouse can remain in the family home.

Your wills and a Power of Attorney are used to ensure the proceeds of an insurance policy are delivered appropriately. You might be ready to consider Life, Total Permanent Disablement, Trauma or Income Protection cover for yourself and your family?

If you would like and obligation free quote or review of your personal insurances to ensure you have the optimal policy wording and best premium pricing then click here to request Phil Sharp, our financial advisor, contact you. If you do have the best money can buy then there can be no harm in hearing Phil tell you so - he will!

If you wish to discuss any of the above please do not hesitate to contact me 
 

Yours sincerely

 

Mark Arthur
Crispin & Jeffery