Most of us don't like to think about estate planning, especially if we're going strong and focusing on more immediate concerns. But if we don't consider estate and legacy planning, we may be putting ourselves and our loved ones in a bind when the time comes.
Estate planning is about putting our minds at ease. After all, if we have a plan in place for what's going to happen to our family after we're gone, we'll be able to relax and lean into today while knowing we have less to worry about tomorrow.
So let's get to it. Here are nine estate considerations you may want to touch base with for the brightest future for your family.
Do You Have a Will?
A will enables you to specify who you want to inherit your property and other assets. A will also enable you to name a guardian for your minor children.
Do You Have Healthcare Documents in Place?
Healthcare documents spell out your wishes for health care if you become unable to make medical decisions for yourself. They also authorize a person to make decisions on your behalf if that should prove necessary. These documents may include a living will, a power of attorney agreement, and a durable power of attorney agreement for healthcare.
Do You Have Financial Documents in Place?
Certain financial documents can outline your financial wishes. If you become unable to make decisions for yourself, these financial documents can be structured to empower a person to make decisions on your behalf. These documents may include joint ownership, durable power of attorney, and living trusts.
Have You Filed Beneficiary Forms?
In some cases, naming a beneficiary for bank accounts and retirement plans makes these accounts “payable on death” to your beneficiaries. In other cases, you will need to fill out a “Payable on Death” form.
Do You Have the Right Amount and Type of Life Insurance?
When was the last time you assessed your life insurance coverage? Have you compared the life insurance benefit with your financial obligations? Keep in mind that several factors will affect the cost and availability of life insurance, including age, health, and the type and amount of insurance purchased.
Life insurance policies have expenses, including mortality and other charges. If a policy is surrendered prematurely, the policyholder may also pay surrender charges and have income tax implications. You should consider determining whether you are insurable before implementing a strategy involving life insurance. Any guarantees associated with a policy are dependent on the ability of the issuing insurance company to continue making claim payments.
Have You Taken Steps to Manage Your Federal Estate Tax?
If you and your spouse have more than $27.22 million in assets (for 2024), you may want to consider taking steps to manage federal estate taxes, which will be due at the second spouse’s death.1
Have You Taken Steps to Protect Your Business?
Do you have a succession plan? If you own a business with others, you may also want to consider a buyout agreement.
Have You Created a Letter of Instruction?
A letter of instruction is a non-legal document that outlines your wishes. A strong, well-written letter may save your heirs time, effort, and expense as they administer your estate.
Will Your Heirs Be Able to Locate Your Critical Documents?
Your heirs may need access to the specific documents you have created to manage your estate. These documents may include:
Putting It All Together
These nine estate management considerations are a great place to start. But remember, every estate plan is unique. Talk to a qualified professional today to talk about your estate planning and next steps.
Note: Power of attorney laws can vary from state to state. An estate strategy that includes trusts may involve a complex web of tax rules and regulations. Consider working with a knowledgeable estate management professional before implementing such strategies.
1. IRS.gov, 2024