Estate Planning
in Northbrook, 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 Northbrook.
Northbrook estates that include a home valued at $480,000-$650,000, a 401(k) balance from an Allstate or corporate career, and other assets frequently approach or exceed the Illinois estate tax threshold of $4 million. We work with Northbrook clients on bypass trust structures to protect both spouses' Illinois exemptions and beneficiary designation reviews, particularly on corporate retirement accounts where outdated designations are common after job changes or family transitions.
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 Northbrook.
Many Northbrook residents are retiring from careers along the I-94 corridor and want to age in place in their community. Our plans account for Northbrook-specific factors like Cook County property taxes and local cost of living.
Things Northbrook families ask.
Down the shore.
Talk to a Northbrook
advisor.
One free conversation about estate planning, at your kitchen table, our Evanston office, or a video call.