Estate planning
Estate planning provides the opportunity to transfer your assets to the next generation in a tax-efficient and structured manner. It’s not just about saving on taxes, but also about providing peace of mind and clarity for you and your heirs. At Westvaer, we are happy to assist you in making this process smooth and effective.
What is estate planning?
Estate planning is a strategic approach to transferring your assets in the most tax-efficient way, taking into account your personal situation, wishes and future outlook. This can include:
- reducing inheritance and gift taxes;
- securing your assets for future generations;
- preventing conflicts within the family.
As a notary office specialized in family and inheritance law, we assist you in creating a plan that fully aligns with your needs.

How does estate planning work in practice?
Effective estate planning begins with understanding your current situation and future goals. Together with you, we review:
- your personal wishes: do you want to gift part of your assets to your children now or transfer everything upon passing?
- marital conditions: would adjusting these be beneficial for reducing tax liabilities?
- business succession: if you own a business, you may be able to take advantage of special tax facilities;
- exempt investment institutions or funds: are you considering setting up a family fund, a named fund, or even an ANBI (Public Benefit Organization)?
We also collaborate with your accountant, tax advisor and banker whenever possible to create a comprehensive plan. This ensures that all financial, legal, and tax aspects are aligned.
Your wishes at the centre
At Westvaer, we understand that estate planning is not just about numbers. It’s primarily about people. Your wishes form the foundation of the plan. We provide support with:
- clear communication with your heirs: by documenting everything in advance and discussing it with them if desired, you can prevent ambiguity and potential conflicts in the future;
- gifts during your lifetime: if you wish to transfer part of your assets to your children now, we ensure it is properly documented to avoid misunderstandings;
- clear guidance; both you and your heirs receive clear explanations about the agreements and arrangements made.
Frequently asked questions about estate planning
Here we answer some common questions:
What exactly is estate planning and why is it important?
Estate planning is the strategic planning of asset transfer, considering tax benefits and personal wishes. It is important because it can reduce inheritance tax, provide clarity for your heirs and prevent conflicts.
When should I start with estate planning?
It is advisable to start as early as possible. This gives you more options to transfer your assets in a structured and gradual way. Additionally, your situation may change over the years, such as with marriage, children or growing wealth. In such cases, a reassessment is always recommended.
How is an estate planner involved in this process?
An estate planner helps you create a plan that considers your assets, wishes and tax regulations. At Westvaer, we have several specialized estate planners. Since they also have the necessary notarial (inheritance law) expertise, Westvaer is the right place for you. We also collaborate closely with your other advisors to provide comprehensive advice.
Do you have any other questions? Our experts are ready to assist you.
Services that complement estate planning
In addition to estate planning, we offer various supplementary services, such as:
- drafting prenuptial agreements and cohabitation contracts: these can play a crucial role in protecting your assets.
- family loans and donations: we provide advice on ways to keep wealth within the family.
- guidance with wills: a well-drafted will is an essential part of estate planning.
Why do clients choose Westvaer?
Why do clients choose Westvaer for estate planning?
- expertise and experience: our notaries have extensive knowledge of estate planning, as well as family and inheritance law;
- personal approach: your wishes and goals are at the heart of our services;
- clear communication: we make complex legal and tax issues understandable;
- collaboration with other experts: we work closely with your accountant, tax advisor, or banker to ensure a comprehensive approach.