ASSET PROTECTION 101

Caution:

A byproduct of the malpracticeinsurance crisis is that more doctorsare looking at ways to protect theirassets, as lower coverage limits put adoctor's personal assets at risk in litigation.Assets in a qualified pensionplan like a Keogh, 401(k), 412(i),simplified employee pension IRA, orsaving incentive match plan foremployees IRA are protected fromcreditors and liability judgments, soyou should maximize the amountyou're putting into them. (IRAs arenot protected in every state; checkwith your attorney.) A limited liabilitycorporation can protect yourpractice assets, and you can protectpersonal assets by putting them intoa trust. Asset protection isnot for amateurs; talk to a qualifiedattorney and accountant beforemaking any moves.