At The Benchmark Group, we understand the interdependencies between private wealth planning, estate planning and business transition planning. Our integrated planning process coordinates all of these areas for you. While other firms tout different planning techniques, we model them out for you so you can see how they work in your specific situation. We present all of our clients with a:

• Detailed analysis and flowchart of their situation illustrating how it fits together from a tax, financial and business standpoint
• Set of strategies to solve not only obvious problem areas but less apparent ones as well

Identifying Disconnects, Creating Solutions
Over the years, we have found that the convergence of legal, tax and financial planning for your business and family can create fundamental "disconnects" or gaps. Often, these disconnects cause the business owner and his or her family unnecessary taxation or disastrous financial consequences, such as:

• Sale of real estate or the business at below market value
• Insufficient funds to pay estate taxes
• Strained relationships
• Vulnerability to creditors
• Family disharmony

At The Benchmark Group, our team of experts, including our legal and financial staff, will carefully review your current plan to identify any gaps or “disconnects”. Think of us as your quarterback helping you and your advisors to close any gaps and to create a winning strategy for your business and family.

Beyond the Numbers and Balance Sheet

Most plans begin with numbers and balance sheets: Our approach starts with a clear understanding what is important to you. Working hand-in-hand with your circle of advisors and our in-house team of trained professionals, The Benchmark Group provides clients with state-of-the-art planning strategies and customized case analyses to help create, preserve and transfer your wealth according to your wishes. Our comprehensive approach addresses:

• Control: The knowledge that all aspects are being soundly managed and you are in overall control of your financial affairs
   
• Preservation of Family Legacy: Assurance that the secure
  transfer of your wealth will take place according to your
  wishes and on your timetable
   
• Personal Financial Security: Protecting and
  maintaining the lifestyle you choose for yourself
  and your family
   
• Asset Protection: Protecting assets from
  creditors and changing family situations
   
• Tax Minimization: The certainty that you are continuously
  minimizing your tax exposure
   
• Asset Shifting: Minimizing or eliminating estate and income taxes; moving growth on your assets outside your taxable estate while maintaining control
   
• Estate equalization: Planning your estate to treat family members equitably
   
• Business Succession or Exit Planning: Helping you to position your business to maximize value should you decide to keep, transfer, or sell it
   
• Charitable Legacy Planning: Leaving a legacy while benefitting your community and your world

We continually monitor the legal, tax and economic environment to ensure that our client’s plan stays up to date and in compliance with recent developments.