Thinking about the future can be inspiring but it can also be a difficult task. Just as its name implies, successful estate planning requires foresight and diligence. While this is true for the initial creation of an estate plan, it holds true as time passes and life changes occur. This is why Californians need to be thoughtful about how and when to modify their estate plans. This is really the only way to achieve desired outcomes. This week, this blog will look at some common estate planning mistakes. Those who find themselves susceptible to any number of them should consider reaching out to an estate planning attorney to figure out how best to remedy the situation.
Life insurance is an important estate planning consideration
Planning for the future can be a complex process. An estate plan needs to be tailored to fit your needs. This may mean benefiting a charitable cause, taking care of a long loved pet or providing as much financial security to your loved ones as possible. Depending on your goals, you'll need to turn to certain estate planning vehicles, such as wills and trusts, and customize them so that they further your best interest.
Medical instructions can be key to successful estate planning
A lot of estate planning is focused on the distribution of wealth upon an individual's passing. While this is certainly an important aspect of the estate planning process, it is only a portion of what should be a comprehensive estate planning approach.
Things to consider even after an estate plan is created
To some, creating an estate plan seems like a monumental task. Even after they get over the fact of having to consider their own mortality, many Californians struggle to decide how to distribute their assets.
Dealing with retirement accounts during estate planning
Many people have retirement accounts and other investments, as well as Social Security benefits that they have worked hard to earn and build. Although these individuals hope to take advantage of these resources when the time comes, they don't always live long enough to do so. In those instances, major questions can be raised about how those assets will be distributed. Without an effective estate plan, those financial resources may be passed down to someone who doesn't deserve them.
Estate planning procrastination: how to stop it
Most people avoid thinking about death. The mere thought of our own mortality often makes us uncomfortable, and it depresses our spirits.
Effective estate planning can avoid illusion of unfairness
There is a lot of decision-making that goes into estate planning. Perhaps the biggest decisions are those that determine to whom assets will be distributed when the time comes.
Is a simple will enough for your estate planning needs?
Estate plans can look different depending on the assets, individuals, and wishes involved. While newly created estate plans can vary from person to person, these plans can evolve over time as modifications become necessary to reflect life's realities.
How do I talk to loved ones about estate planning?
Thinking about your own mortality can be a challenging thing to do. Yet, coming to terms with the inevitable is the first step in being proactive about planning for your estate and the financial security of your loved ones.
Our firm offers comprehensive and creative estate planning
If you're reading this blog, then you may be interested in creating or modifying an existing estate plan. Many Californians find themselves overwhelmed by the mere thought of taking such actions.
