Estate Planning
in Arlington Heights, IL.
Make sure the people you love get what you've built.
Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy, it's for anyone who wants to make sure their family is taken care of. Without a plan, Illinois probate courts decide who gets your assets, who takes care of your children, and how your life's work is distributed.
At our firm, we work with families across Chicago's Northern Suburbs to create estate plans that protect your legacy, minimize taxes, avoid probate, and ensure your wishes are honored.
What this looks like in Arlington Heights.
Arlington Heights estates are less frequently above the Illinois estate tax threshold than wealthier North Shore communities, but the estate planning essentials are equally important. We ensure Arlington Heights clients have current revocable living trusts, bypass trust provisions where the combined estate is at risk of exceeding the Illinois threshold, and updated beneficiary designations across all retirement accounts and insurance policies.
The county details.
Illinois's $4 million estate tax exemption is the defining issue in Cook County estate planning, and it catches more families than expect it. A primary residence worth $1.2 million, a $1.5 million investment portfolio, and $500,000 in life insurance already totals $3.2 million, before accounting for retirement accounts. Without specific trust planning, both the federal and Illinois estate tax exemptions may not be fully utilized at the first spouse's death. An AB trust or disclaimer trust design ensures both spouses' Illinois exemptions are captured, potentially protecting up to $8 million from Illinois estate tax.
Why Arlington Heights.
Arlington Heights draws retirees from across the northern collar counties who want walkability, amenities, and easy travel access without the price tags of lakefront communities. Many clients are downsizing from larger suburban homes nearby. We help them structure the sale of appreciated real estate, plan the investment of the proceeds, and build income plans designed around an active, community-oriented retirement.
Things Arlington Heights families ask.
Down the shore.
Talk to a Arlington Heights
advisor.
One free conversation about estate planning, at your kitchen table, our Evanston office, or a video call.