Getting Your Estate Affairs In Order
Photo by Lorna Pauli via Pexels
Recently, I had the pleasure of spending a weekend with college friends. I had seen each of them here and there over the years, but the three of us had not been together in almost 30 years. We laughed, we reminisced about college days, and we talked about our families, careers, and future hopes and dreams.
I came away feeling incredibly fortunate to have known them for so long. Each of them was still very much the person I remembered, but with the rough edges of youth softened into strong, caring, empathetic, insightful women. Life has not unfolded the way we planned, but in many ways it has been more meaningful and more joyful than we could have imagined.
When I returned home, I learned that one of my cousins had passed away unexpectedly. He is the first person in my family younger than me to die, and the loss has been a shock for all of us.
Our family gathered for a beautiful and heartfelt service celebrating his life. Listening to stories from those who knew him best, especially within his church community, I felt like I got to know him in a deeper way. I found myself wishing for more time with him, and for the chance to connect again.
That experience sat side by side in my mind with my weekend of laughter and connection. It left me with a deep sense of gratitude and a clear reminder that every day is a gift.
And it also reinforced something I talk about often with clients..
Why Estate Planning Matters More Than You Think
Get your estate plan in order.
Over the years, I have worked with hundreds of families, and I hear many of the same concerns:
“I know I need a will, I just haven’t gotten around to it.”
“It’s hard to think about who would raise our kids.”
“Estate planning attorneys are expensive.”
“I don’t have enough assets to need a plan.”
These feelings are completely understandable. But putting this off can create far more complexity for your loved ones later.
What Happens If You Do Not Have an Estate Plan
If you have not created estate planning documents, you still have a plan. It is simply the one the state you live in has created for you.
When someone dies without a will, their estate goes through probate and is distributed based on state law. This process can take months, sometimes years, and it may not reflect your wishes.
That is rarely the outcome people would choose for their families.
What Should Be Included In Your Estate Plan
A thoughtful estate plan helps ensure your wishes are carried out and reduces stress for the people you love.
Estate plans can be will-based or trust-based. A trust can be especially helpful if you have minor children or want more control over how assets are distributed.
A complete estate plan typically includes:
A will (and trust)
Financial power of attorney
Healthcare power of attorney
Healthcare directive or living will
These documents outline how your assets should be distributed and who can make financial or medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
Estate Planning is a Gift to Your Family
These are not easy topics to think about. But having your estate plan in place is one of the most thoughtful things you can do for your loved ones.
It can help avoid a lengthy probate process, reduce costs, and provide clarity during an already emotional time.
If you have children, this becomes even more important. Your estate plan allows you to name who will care for them and how they will be supported financially.
It is, quite simply, a way to take care of the people you love.
A Final Thought
We are so lucky to have had the time we have had. To grow, to evolve, and to become the people we are today.
Use that time wisely. Take the step to put your estate plan in place.
Ready to Get Started?
If preparing estate documents is something you have been meaning to do, you are not alone. I work with my clients and attorneys to get their estate plans in order as part of our ongoing work together. The most important thing is aligning the plan with what matters most to you.
