If you operate a family farm, you already understand a financial reality that does not show up neatly on paper. Much of your wealth sits in land, equipment, and improvements that support the operation but do not generate spare cash. At the same time, rising land values have quietly increased the size of many farm […]
7 Tips for Choosing a Living Trust Successor Trustee
Choosing a living trust successor trustee is one of the most consequential decisions you make when creating a trust. This person or institution steps in only when you no longer serve, yet their actions shape how your plan works in real life. A thoughtful choice protects your intent, reduces complications, and keeps administration on track […]
Brief Bytes: Why an Annual Estate Plan Check-In Matters
Estate planning is not a one-time event—it is an ongoing process that requires thoughtful stewardship. That is why Stockton & Kandt offers clients a no-cost annual estate plan review as part of our commitment to long-term planning and client care (The Annual Review Meeting). During each Annual Review, we evaluate your plan using our Four-Leg Stool approach—foundational planning, long-term […]
Is Your Estate Plan Still Aligned with Your Life?
The start of a new year is a natural time to pause, reflect, and reset. Many people use January to review finances, update goals, or make plans for the year ahead. Yet one important area is often overlooked: your estate plan. For most families, estate planning is not something that needs attention every year because something […]
The S&K Difference: Introducing the S&K Legacy Guide – Signature Edition
Most people begin estate planning by asking a simple question:“Do I need a will or a trust?” At Stockton & Kandt, we believe that question—while important—does not go far enough. Estate planning, when done well, is not simply about documents. It is about clarity, coordination, and long-term protection for you and the people you care […]
Why Do People Avoid Probate?
Probate is the legal process of settling an estate after someone passes away. It ensures debts are paid and assets are distributed according to a will or state law. While it serves a purpose, many people take steps to avoid probate. In Kansas, probate can be time-consuming, expensive, and stressful for heirs. Understanding why people […]
Is a Living Will the Same As a DNR Order?
When you start thinking about end-of-life planning, you may hear a lot of terms that sound similar. One question many people ask is whether a living will is the same as a DNR order. Both deal with medical treatment decisions, but they serve different purposes. If you live in Kansas, it’s important to understand how […]
Firearms Enthusiasts: Consider a Gun Trust
If you’re a firearms collector in Kansas, especially one who owns or is considering acquiring NFA-regulated items, it’s worth thinking about how your collection will be handled in the long run. You may already know the process for applying for a tax stamp, completing ATF Form 4, and storing your suppressor or short-barreled rifle. But […]
Special Needs Planning: Avoid Unintended Consequences
An estate plan should fit the needs of your family members individually. The right way to leave assets to one child may be entirely wrong for another, especially if that child lives with a disability. Special needs planning gives you tools to provide financial support without putting public assistance at risk. Let’s look at the […]
Why Would You Use an Irrevocable Trust?
When you hear that there are revocable trusts and irrevocable trusts, a question may naturally come to mind. Why would you want to give up the freedom to revoke your trust if you have a choice? We will look at the answer to the question in this post, and when you see the complete picture, […]
See Larger Map Get Directions