Estate Planning

Protect Your Legacy. Secure Your Family's Future.

You've worked hard to build your practice and your wealth. Now it's time to ensure it is protected and passed on according to your wishes. Our estate planning services for chiropractors, physiotherapists, and RMTs in BC and Ontario will help you create a comprehensive plan that minimizes taxes, protects your assets, and provides peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

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What Happens to Your Wealth When You're Gone?

Estate planning is not just about writing a will. For healthcare professionals, especially those who are incorporated or own a clinic, estate planning is a complex process that requires specialized knowledge of tax law, corporate structures, and family dynamics. Without proper planning, your family could face a massive tax bill, probate delays, and unnecessary stress during an already difficult time.

The Canadian tax system treats death as a deemed disposition, meaning all your assets are considered sold at fair market value, triggering capital gains taxes and RRSP/RRIF income inclusion. For incorporated professionals, the tax consequences can be particularly severe, with corporate shares and retained earnings subject to double taxation.

Our Comprehensive Estate Planning Services

At Athena Financial, we take a holistic approach to estate planning. We work with you, your family, and your legal advisors to create a comprehensive plan that addresses all aspects of your estate, from tax minimization to asset protection.

Will & Power of Attorney Review: We ensure you have an up-to-date will and powers of attorney for both property and healthcare. We work with your lawyer to ensure your documents reflect your current wishes and financial situation.

Corporate Estate Planning: For incorporated professionals, we develop strategies to minimize the tax impact of your corporate shares at death, including corporate-owned life insurance and estate freezes.

Life Insurance Needs Analysis: We conduct a thorough analysis of your life insurance needs, considering income replacement, debt repayment, estate equalization, and tax liability coverage.

Trust Planning: We advise on the use of trusts, including family trusts for income splitting and asset protection, and testamentary trusts for beneficiaries.

Succession Planning for Clinic Owners: We help you plan for the transition of your clinic, whether through a sale to a third party, a transfer to a family member, or a partnership buyout. We ensure the process is tax-efficient and aligned with your estate goals.

Charitable Giving Strategies: We help you incorporate charitable giving into your estate plan, allowing you to support causes you care about while also achieving tax benefits.

The Athena Estate Planning Process

Estate planning is a deeply personal process. We take the time to understand your values, your family dynamics, and your long-term goals. Our process includes:

  • Discovery: We have an in-depth conversation about your family, your assets, your wishes, and your concerns.
  • Analysis: We review your current estate plan (if you have one), your corporate structure, your insurance coverage, and your tax situation.
  • Strategy: We develop a customized estate plan that addresses your specific needs and goals, with a focus on tax minimization and asset protection.
  • Implementation: We work with you and your legal advisors to implement the plan, from updating your will to establishing trusts and purchasing life insurance.
  • Review: We meet with you regularly to review your estate plan and make adjustments as your life circumstances and the law change.

"I always put off estate planning because it felt overwhelming. Athena made the process simple and stress-free. I now have peace of mind knowing my family is protected and my wishes will be carried out."

– Dr. Emily Wong, Registered Massage Therapist, Richmond, BC

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm young and healthy. Do I really need an estate plan?
Yes. Estate planning is not just for the elderly. If you have a family, own assets, or have a professional corporation, you need an estate plan. Unexpected events can happen at any age, and having a plan in place provides protection and peace of mind.
What is an estate freeze and how can it help me?
An estate freeze is a strategy that allows you to "freeze" the value of your corporate shares at their current value, with future growth accruing to the next generation. This can significantly reduce the tax liability on your estate.
How much life insurance do I need?
The amount of life insurance you need depends on your individual circumstances, including your debts, your family's income needs, and the potential tax liability on your estate. We can conduct a comprehensive needs analysis to determine the right amount for you.

Protect What Matters Most

Don't leave your family's future to chance. Take control of your estate plan today. Book your complimentary estate planning consultation with Athena Financial and get a clear roadmap to protecting your legacy and securing your family's financial future.

Book My FREE Estate Planning Consultation