A Comprehensive Guide To Estate Planning: Steps To Begin Planning Your Estate

Planning for your estate can seem overwhelming, we get it. But with the right tools and resources by your side, it doesn't have to be a daunting task to get started. Instead, look at it as time spent to give your loved ones peace of mind once you pass, so they have time to grieve your passing vs. spending hours tied up in the administrative items. Below, we outline the essential steps to begin planning your estate, including the process with estate planning attorneys, will services, financial planners, life insurance advisors, and more.

Together,  we’ll navigate the estate planning process with confidence and ease so you feel confident on where to begin. 

Tools To Begin Planning Your Estate:

When it comes to estate planning, consider the following professionals and/or tools who can assist you:

• If it makes sense for you, we suggest consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney to understand the legal process and draft necessary documents such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and health care directives.
• You could also use a reliable online will service to cost-effectively create your will, especially if you have a simple or very straightforward estate. We recommend Trust&Will or Legal Zoom.
• Seek guidance from a knowledgeable financial planner who can evaluate your assets and develop a plan for managing them once you pass, including retirement accounts, investments and estate accounts.
• Speak with a life insurance advisor who can help you determine the right life insurance policy to protect your loved ones financially.
• Ensure you have a clear understanding of your intended beneficiaries and heirs and have a well-defined plan for the distribution of your assets.
• Organize all the above documents along with birth certificates, passwords, funeral wishes and more in The Deadbook.

By engaging these professionals, tools and resources, you can build a comprehensive estate plan that ensures your loved ones are properly provided for after your passing. You’ll have a sense of calm knowing you’ve started your estate planning journey.