Trusts and Estates
Learn which trust is best for which clients, the tax benefits of different estate planning strategies and how to transfer wealth responsibly, as well as estate planning techniques that benefit families with special needs
The Wealth Transfer Is a Retention Event You're Already Losing
By John O’ConnellGetting ahead of the trillions set to be passed down is more than a balance sheet to-do item.
September 01, 2026
PRO
How Adult Children Affect Gray Marriage Estate PlanningBrett Hina, of Cornerstone Private Wealth, helped an older couple entering marriage redefine the meaning of "fair."
August 27, 2026
Vanilla Launches Tool for Family Access to DocumentsVanilla Safe provides household members with important information in an emergency.
August 26, 2026
PRO
This Trust Shields Client Assets From Lawsuits, but Is It Worth It?High-net-worth clients may find Cook Islands Trusts attractive, but there are high costs and domestic alternatives.
August 24, 2026
PRO
When Newlyweds Discover They're Not Financially EqualThe wife, 65, had four times the retirement assets of the husband, 75. Here's how advisor Erin O'Brien helped make it work.
August 18, 2026
PRO
How One Advisor Fixed a Special-Needs Estate PlanJeffrey Llewellyn helped his clients ensure their autistic daughter would be supported for life without losing her government benefits.
August 14, 2026
The Estate Is Settled. Your Widowed Client Still Needs You.The advisor's role only deepens after the paperwork and immediate decisions are behind the client.
August 13, 2026
Your Clients Want to Talk About Estate Planning. Don't Shy Away.Done right, the process can lead to stronger client relationships and increased AUM, Vanilla's Gene Farrell says.