October may be the month for spooky tales, but there are some real myths about estate planning that can haunt you if you believe them. As part of National Estate Planning Awareness Month, let’s debunk some common misconceptions about estate planning so you can make informed decisions about your future.
Myth 1: Only wealthy people need estate plans.
This myth is far from the truth. Estate planning isn’t just for the ultra-wealthy. If you own a home, have any savings, or have children, you need an estate plan. It ensures your assets go where you want them to, not where the state decides.
Myth 2: Estate planning is only for the elderly.
Estate planning is important for adults of all ages. You never know when an accident or sudden illness might occur. By having a will, a trust, or a power of attorney, you’re prepared for the unexpected, regardless of your age.
Myth 3: Once I create my estate plan, I’m done.
Life changes, and your estate plan should, too. Marriage, divorce, new children or grandchildren, and changes in financial status are all reasons to update your plan. If it’s been years since you last reviewed your estate plan, it’s time to look it over.
Myth 4: A will is all I need.
While a will is a great starting point, it’s not the only document you need. Powers of attorney, trusts, and advance directives are equally important for ensuring your wishes are carried out in all situations.
Don’t let these myths misguide you. This Halloween season, it’s time to face the facts and take control of your future.
Ready to bust these myths? Request a consultation today here, or register for a workshop here to learn more about how estate planning can secure your legacy.
Getting started
As summer winds down, families naturally start getting organized again. Calendars come back out. Routines return. People begin thinking about the months ahead rather than just the weekend in front of them.
·5 min read
Getting started
Most people who try to create their own estate plan aren’t being careless. In fact, it’s usually the opposite. They’re organized and responsible, trying to “get it done” without spending unnecessary time or money.
·6 min read
Getting started
I thought I had this handled.” And honestly, many people did. They created a will after having children. They signed a trust years ago.
·5 min readThe workbook helps you clarify what you want your plan to accomplish, identify possible gaps, prepare the right people, and decide what to do next, whether this is your first revocable living trust-based estate plan or you are reviewing an old one.
Separately, you can subscribe to A Matter of Trust, a weekly newsletter from Tamara featuring practical estate-planning guidance, thoughtful reflections on family and legacy, and other estate planning ideas worth passing along. Sign up for one or both.
Estate planning is a process, not an event. Start with a Right Fit Call: a short, no-pressure conversation to see whether we are the right firm for your family, and what a plan that walks alongside you would look like.
