Death can come when we least expect it. Proper preparation will make things as seamless as possible for your family and loved ones. There is no such thing as starting the estate planning process too soon. Some of the things you will need to do and think about:
Identify your assets. Prepare a list of assets, including investments, real estate and business interests, insurance policies, annuities, and retirement savings. You must also think about your debts and how they will be addressed after you pass away.
Choose a guardian for your minor children. This is probably the most important reason to have a good estate plan in place. Don’t let a court decide who will raise your children when you are gone.
Name a decision-maker. A proper estate plan ensures a deceased person’s wishes are carried out by naming an executor/trustee. This should be someone you know well and trust.
Name your beneficiaries. This is one area that will likely change over time as you grow and your family changes, but estate planning documents should be re-evaluated and changed as needed, especially after major life events.
Plan for disability as well as death. Decide who you can trust to make medical decisions for you and handle your finances if you become physically or mentally unable to do so.
In this world, nothing is certain except death and taxes. You can show your love for your family be being prepared for your inevitable demise. Complete our estate planning questionnaire, return to us and we will be in contact about putting a proper estate plan together for you.
