Frequently Asked Questions
The questions clients ask most about working with us and about wealth planning.
Consultations & service
What should I prepare for the first meeting?
Nothing special. Briefly tell us about your family, business and assets, and what concerns you most. If you have existing policies, trusts or wills, bring them so we can understand your situation faster.
Can we speak in Chinese?
Yes. Our founder, Hong Miller, is fluent in Mandarin and English. We can work in either language and help you communicate with English-speaking attorneys and accountants.
Can we meet online? I don't live in New York.
Yes. In addition to meeting in Manhattan, we offer phone and video meetings for clients across the U.S. and abroad.
Is my information kept confidential?
Yes. Your family and financial information is used only for planning and is not shared with unrelated third parties without your consent.
Do you give legal or tax advice?
No. We provide overall planning, insurance solutions and coordination of your professional team; legal documents and tax opinions must come from your attorney and accountant, or licensed professionals we work with.
Estates, insurance & legacy
What is probate, and why do people want to avoid it?
Probate is the court process that validates a will, settles debts and distributes the estate. It can take months or longer, involves legal and court costs, and is generally public. Living trusts, beneficiary designations and appropriate titling are common ways to avoid it.
What is the difference between a will and a living trust?
A will takes effect at death and usually goes through probate. A living trust works as soon as it is set up and funded; a successor trustee can manage the assets if you become incapacitated and distribute them after death, generally without probate.
What role does life insurance play in estate planning?
Life insurance can provide a defined sum when needed — to pay estate-related taxes and expenses, support the family, equalize inheritances, or fund business succession and buy-sell agreements.
Do I have to buy long-term care insurance?
Not necessarily. Options include self-funding, traditional long-term care insurance, or life insurance with long-term care benefits. The right choice depends on your age, health, assets and legacy goals.
I own a business. What should I address first?
Usually two things: who takes over and where the money comes from if you or a partner can no longer work, and whether business risk could reach your family's assets. These set the priorities for everything else.
My parents live in China and my children live in the U.S. How should we plan?
Cross-border families should first clarify each member's tax status and where assets are held, then design protection and legacy arrangements with professionals familiar with both countries' laws and taxes.
