Estate Planning Roadmap

An essential first step in estate planning is to gain a comprehensive understanding of your current situation.

This free estate summary document collects important information about the status of your estate (such as the existence and location of key documents, assets, liabilities, and sources of income) ensuring that loved ones are aware of what exists and where to find it.

Considering it takes over 500 hours on average to administer an estate, are you truly prepared? This quiz has options for your estate and for someone else’s estate (such as a parent).

Developed by attorneys and end-of-life professionals, the Estate Preparation Package organizes your most critical estate and end-of-life information, thereby reducing stress, uncertainty, and financial strain for your family during their time of grief. If you want to begin organizing your information on your own, we recommend our Estate Preparation 101 Checklist.

Providing instructions for your final resting place ensures that your wishes are respected and honored. This clarity can ease the burden on loved ones.

Having a will is crucial to ensure your wishes are honored after your passing; without one, the state will dictate the distribution of your assets and decisions regarding your estate, which may not align with your intentions.

Evaluating whether trusts are right for you involves understanding how they can help manage your assets, provide for loved ones, and potentially minimize estate taxes. Trusts offer flexibility in distribution and protect your estate from probate, ensuring your beneficiaries receive their inheritance according to your instructions.

Having advance directives is essential to ensure your healthcare preferences are respected and followed, providing clear instructions for medical care when you are unable to communicate your decisions. They include a living will, durable power of attorney for health care, POLST (Physician Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment), MOLST (Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment).

Deciding whether a financial power of attorney is right for you involves appointing someone you trust to manage your financial affairs if you become unable to do so, ensuring that your finances are handled according to your wishes and preventing potential complications during unexpected situations.

Deciding whether insurance is right for you involves evaluating your financial situation, personal circumstances, and future needs to determine if insurance coverage can provide the necessary financial protection and peace of mind. By securing the right insurance, you can safeguard yourself and your loved ones against unexpected events, ensuring that your financial obligations are met and your goals are achieved.