Financially Ever After Widowhood
Financially Ever After Widowhood
Stacy Francis
Using Trusts to Protect Your Legacy with Shamisa Zvoma
31 minutes Posted Jan 20, 2026 at 5:01 am.
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Show notes
Is your money really going where you want it to when you’re gone, or are taxes, outdated documents, and lack of planning quietly deciding for you? In this episode, I sit down with CPA and estate planning expert Shamisa Zvoma to unpack the truths most people miss about trusts, gifting, tax strategy, and why estate planning isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy. We talk about control, protection, legacy, and the narrow window many families are overlooking right now that could cost them millions down the road.
You’ll hear us discuss:
Why trusts aren’t just for wealthy families and how they give you control long after you’re gone
The biggest misconceptions people have about estate planning and taxes
How trusts can protect assets from creditors, divorce, and poor timing
Why giving money outright isn’t always the smartest move
How lifetime gifting can dramatically reduce future estate taxes
The annual gifting limits and how couples can maximize them
How paying tuition or medical bills can reduce your estate without triggering gift taxes
Why estate plans should be reviewed every 3–5 years (and after major life changes)
Real-life examples of what goes wrong when plans aren’t updated
How state estate taxes can create major surprises even when federal taxes don’t apply
Resources
Shamisa Zvoma on LinkedIn | Phone: 212-605-3182 | Email
Stacy Francis on LinkedIn | X(Twitter) | Email
FrancisFinancial.com
Reach out to receive a complimentary consultation! Contact Francis Financial at +212-374-9008 or visit Francis Financial today!