A Special Needs Trust is a powerful tool to provide supplemental support to wrap around government benefits. An ABLE account can enhance public benefits by supporting any disability related expense. Together, they can provide comprehensive support for an individual with a disability. Why create a Special Needs Trust? Special Needs Trusts are created to protect the government benefits of a …

Ranches, dairies, timberlands, wineries, and cranberry bogs are unique to our area. Such businesses are more than a way of making a living. They are about preserving a legacy and unique way of life. The U.S. Department of Agriculture National Agricultural Statistics Service reports that family-owned farms account for 97 percent of the 2.1 million farms in the U.S. Yet …

If you own a family business and have not yet created an estate plan that includes a very detailed and well-thought-out succession plan for your family business, get started now. Here is why. Years ago, I received a call from an attorney who asked Oregon Pacific Bank to step in for the eldest son serving as successor trustee of his …

Charitable Trusts can be a flexible and efficient piece of a philanthropically inclined individual’s financial plan. Charitable Remainder Trusts have historically been used to create a retirement income stream along with a tax deduction during peak earning years, while Charitable Lead Trusts have been utilized to transfer appreciated assets to beneficiaries in a tax-efficient way. Each of these trusts provides …

Scholarship trusts are a form of charitable trust with the specific philanthropic intent of funding education for a select group of students. While a scholarship trust can be easy to establish, either through a Will or Trust, the program will not be successful without diligent oversight. These trusts present unique challenges regarding investment, taxation, and distribution. Oregon Pacific Bank specializes …

Pet Trusts are a valuable planning tool to provide for the care and welfare of our animals in the event of our disability or death. From reptiles and rodents to hounds and horses, all pets can benefit from a well-crafted plan to provide financial support and wellness oversight. Here are a couple examples from our files. SARAH AND BAILEY Sarah …