Planning Your Estate? 4 Tips To Make The Process Easier
If you haven't created an estate plan, now's the time to get started on that. It's never too early to create an estate plan. In fact, it's better to create one as soon as you're out on your own. You can always adjust your plan as your life changes throughout the years. If you're not sure where to start, read the information provided here. You'll find four simple tips to help make planning your estate easier and less stressful.
Make a List of Your Assets
Now that you're getting started on your estate plan, the first thing you need to do is make a list of your assets. You might think your assets only involve bank accounts, houses, cars, and investment accounts, but that's not the case. Your assets include everything you own, including collections, life insurance policies, and retirement accounts. A complete list of your assets will help you create the most comprehensive estate plan.
Identify Your Family Needs
When you sit down to create your estate plan, you need to think about your family; specifically, their needs. For instance, how much income would your family need to stay afloat if you were to pass away? This list of family needs should include housing, debts, and medical needs. If you have children, this list should also include future educational needs, such as college. Identifying family needs will help you identify shortcomings in your estate plan, and will allow you the time you need to increase life insurance policies.
Plan for Your Directives
If you're ready to begin your estate plan, it's important that you consider your own needs. This is where the directives come into the picture. Directives are designed to protect you, your estate, and your family. Some of the directives you'll need include powers-of-attorney, medical directives, and trusts.
Understand the Laws
Finally, now that you're preparing your estate plan, make sure you understand the laws. You might not realize this, but there are federal and state laws that pertain to estate plans. This is especially true where tax laws and the distribution of wealth are concerned. Before your family is faced with estate problems after you pass, be sure to identify the laws that pertain to your situation. If you're unsure about the laws, be sure to discuss the matter with an estate attorney.
Don't wait until it's too late. Use the tips provided here to get you started on your estate plan. To learn more, contact an estate planning service.