The start of the New Year almost always brings with it new goals and resolutions. So, what is the best way to meet these goals head-on and successfully complete them? Oftentimes, the key is in not taking one giant leap, but small steps, providing us the best possible chance to succeed!
With estate planning, adopt a similar approach. Taking manageable steps can make all the difference between completing your estate plan and giving yourself and your family peace of mind, and putting it off for another year, potentially putting your loved ones at risk in the event something happens to you. Here are just a few benefits of putting an estate plan in place:
Nominate an individual you trust to make health care decisions: Nominating a trusted individual who knows your health care wishes can ensure your desires are followed. Without planning ahead, your family is likely to have to go to Court before making health care decisions on your behalf, incurring additional money and time during an already stressful period.
Name someone to manage your financial affairs if you are unable to do so: Executing a Financial Power of Attorney ensures your financial affairs continue seamlessly during your life and any legal decisions can be made on your behalf. In the absence of a Financial Power of Attorney, no one can legally make these decisions for you, whether that person is a spouse, a child, or a close friend.
Provide for your children and loved ones from future potential creditors, predators, and unnecessary taxes: Protecting your loved ones from others and sometimes themselves, can ensure your desires are followed. A proper plan promotes family harmony upon your passing by making the process proceed smoothly without undue stress and delays.
Protect your assets, both during your lifetime and after: Planning ahead can make all the difference in protecting your most cherished assets for yourself and your family members. Advanced planning options to protect assets in the event of a need for advanced health care expenses may be warranted to protect your assets.
To take the first step toward giving yourself peace of mind and a lasting legacy come to our free educational seminar being held in the Village of Hilbert Community Room on Saturday, February 4th at 10:00 AM. We will be providing an overview of how a properly drafted comprehensive estate plan can save your family time, money, and promote harmony among your beneficiaries. Click here for more information on our upcoming seminar in Hilbert!