4 Reasons Families Fail When Transferring Wealth

Several things can go wrong when a family tries to pass its wealth down to the next generation. To keep your own wealth transfer on track, keep these four common pitfalls in mind.

A broken piggy bank.
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Over the next 25 years, analysts anticipate $68 trillion to be passed down to younger generations and charities. While the importance of legacy planning is not limited to the forthcoming Great Wealth Transfer, it does spotlight the significant amount of wealth that has been created, primarily by Baby Boomers, and the need to transition these assets thoughtfully. A legacy plan, regardless of the size of a portfolio, is an essential component of the financial planning process, ensuring the assets an individual has spent their entire life accumulating will transfer to the people and organizations they want, and that family members are well-prepared to inherit and execute their wishes.

There are, however, four common missteps that can cause individuals and families to veer off track.

Disclaimer

This article was written by and presents the views of our contributing adviser, not the Kiplinger editorial staff. You can check adviser records with the SEC or with FINRA.

Julie Virta, CFP®, CFA, CTFA
Senior Financial Adviser, Vanguard

Julie Virta, CFP®, CFA, CTFA is a senior financial adviser with Vanguard Personal Advisor Services. She specializes in creating customized investment and financial planning solutions for her clients and is particularly well-versed on comprehensive wealth management and legacy planning for multi-generational families. A Boston College graduate, Virta has over 25 years of industry experience and is a member of the CFA Society of Philadelphia and Boston College Alumni Association.