ESTATE PLANNING SERVICES

About Estate Planning

At Stark & Marsh, we understand that estate planning is a crucial aspect of preparing for the future. Our team of estate planning professionals is equipped with in-depth knowledge of both estate planning and the unique challenges faced by the agriculture industry. With our tailored approach, we can help you develop a comprehensive estate plan that protects your assets, minimizes taxes, and ensures a smooth transition for you and your business if applicable.



Our Estate Planning Services include:

Consultation and Needs Assessment

We begin by conducting a thorough consultation to understand your specific goals and objectives. Our team will collaborate with you to identify potential challenges and opportunities. This assessment will serve as the foundation for creating a customized estate plan that addresses your specific needs.

Tax Planning and Minimization

A well-designed estate plan can help minimize the tax burden on your beneficiaries. Our experts will analyze your current tax position and develop strategies to maximize tax efficiency. This may include utilizing tax exemptions and credits, implementing trusts, or exploring other tax planning techniques.

Canadian Pension & Old Age Security

Optimizing CPP and OAS benefits is crucial for effective retirement planning in Canada. By understanding the eligibility criteria, contribution strategies, and various optimization techniques, individuals can maximize their retirement income streams while minimizing tax implications.

Trusts and Estate Administration

We provide guidance on the establishment and administration of trusts, which can be valuable tools for managing and distributing assets in accordance with your wishes. Our professionals will ensure that your trust structures are tailored to your specific goals, whether that involves protecting assets, providing for dependents, or charitable giving.

Business Continuity Planning

For agricultural businesses, business continuity planning is crucial to safeguard the long-term viability of the operation. We will help you develop a comprehensive plan that addresses potential risks, ensures effective management transitions, and safeguards the financial stability of the business during periods of uncertainty.

Review and Update

Estate planning is not a one-time process; it requires periodic review and updates to reflect changes in your personal circumstances, tax laws, and industry regulations. Our team will work with you to regularly review and update your estate plan, ensuring that it remains aligned with your goals and remains effective over time.

Securing an estate plan is not merely an afterthought; it’s a fundamental step towards financial security and peace of mind. Without it, you surrender control over the distribution of your assets and potentially compromise the financial stability of your loved ones. An estate plan ensures your wishes are respected, minimizes the burden of taxes, and provides a clear roadmap for the seamless transition of your legacy. It’s not just about wealth; it’s about protecting what matters most.

Candace Gelleta, CFP®, RRC®

Senior Wealth Management Advisor

WEALTH MANAGEMENT TEAM

CANDACE GELLETA

CFP®, RRC®, SENIOR WEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVISOR

cgelleta@starkmarsh.com

Candace has worked in financial planning since 2014 and holds both her RRC® and CFP® designations. She helps Stark & Marsh clients create personalized financial plans that consider retirement, insurance, estate, and tax needs. Candace collaborates closely with accounting and tax advisors to ensure a full-picture approach. Through a referral agreement with TriCert Investment Counsel Inc., she connects clients with portfolio managers for tailored investment strategies—offering an integrated, customized planning experience. Learn more by visiting Candace’s biography page.

JANICE BISSONNETTE

ENGAGEMENT COORDINATOR

jbissonnette@starkmarsh.com

Janice plays a key role in coordinating financial planning engagements at Stark & Marsh. She works closely with clients to gather financial information, organize documents, and ensure accuracy and confidentiality. Janice supports the planning team by preparing reports, managing schedules, and keeping communication clear and timely. Her coordination helps deliver tailored financial plans and ensures a smooth, goal-focused experience for clients. Learn more by visiting Janice’s biography page.

Portfolio and Investment Fund Manager

Through a referral arrangement, Stark & Marsh Wealth Management Services offers you direct access to TriCert Investment Counsel’s portfolio management services. Seamlessly working with your Stark & Marsh CPA LLP Accountant and your Stark & Marsh Wealth Management Services Financial Planner, your TriCert Investment Counsel’s Portfolio Manager takes a quality sector-based (QSect) approach to tailor an investment management strategy that is specific to your unique circumstances designed to meet your goals and provide peace of mind through volatile markets.

TriCert Investment Counsel is registered as a Portfolio Manager with the Ontario Securities Commission (OSC) in Ontario, its principal regulator, and with each relevant securities administrator in all other jurisdictions across Canada. TriCert Investment Counsel is registered as an Investment Fund Manager in Ontario. Today, TriCert Investment Counsel proudly manages over $3 billion in assets on behalf of thousands of clients.

To learn more, visit TriCert.ca.