Wealth Management > Trust & Estate Services > Estate Planning

Estate Planning and Guidance

Expertise that helps now and in the future

Your estate represents more than the assets it contains – it is really the culmination and expression of your life’s work, as well as the legacy you leave to future generations and the community at large. Montecito Bank & Trust brings a thoughtful and comprehensive approach to estate planning that we believe distinguishes us from other financial institutions. We are particularly skilled at handling large and complex estates that require both broad expertise and the willingness to collaborate closely with other professionals in carrying out the client’s wishes. We can also help in situations where an existing will or trust needs to be modified because of a change in personal circumstances or laws and regulations.

Sophisticated estate planning requires in-depth knowledge of ever-evolving techniques for minimizing taxes on the transfer of wealth, along with the ability to help clients choose from among many options to create specific trusts and an overall plan for carrying out their wishes. There are many different strategies – the key is knowing which ones are best for achieving your specific objectives. We have the knowledge to guide you in making those choices, as well as lengthy experience in providing trust and fiduciary services not only to individuals and families, but also to foundations, endowments, and charitable organizations.

It is important to recognize that estate planning, if done correctly, can have a very positive effect not just for your beneficiaries but for your current lifestyle as well. Enhanced income streams, tax advantages, community recognition, emotional comfort – these are just some of the benefits that proper estate planning can provide you.