Three Estate Planning Mistakes Farmers and Ranchers Make—and How to Avoid Them

Planning For Retirement

Farming and ranching is more than just a livelihood; it is about preserving a legacy and a way of life. Unfortunately, many farmers and ranchers fail to create a comprehensive estate plan—or any estate plan at all. Without a proper estate plan, the family farm or ranch, passed down for generations, can end up being sold and converted to nonagricultural use, cutting the family’s legacy short and ending their unique lifestyle. Included are three common estate planning mistakes farmers and ranchers make and how to avoid them.

How an Inheritance Can Enhance Your Loved One’s Educational Experience

Higher levels of education are positively correlated with better life outcomes, including improved health, longer lifespans, and higher incomes.[1] However, education costs across all levels have risen significantly, pushing a good education out of reach for many families and saddling students with debt that can take decades to pay off. From primary school to postgraduate studies, you can invest in a loved one’s education and maximize their potential through your estate plan.

Ways to Keep a Loved One’s Memory Alive After They Pass

When somebody close to us passes away, we are left with constant reminders of them. There are many ways to turn memories into mementos and honor a beloved friend’s or family member’s passing. These tributes can also be a creative and strategic way to use estate assets. Planning ahead provides your loved ones with more flexibility in using your money and property for dedications and memorials. A well-thought-out plan can even set aside money for such purposes.