3 Tips to Improve Your Estate Plan

If you’re just beginning to think about creating an estate plan, there are 3 tips that can help you along the way.  These tips will help you have a good plan in place so that your needs are met.  Take a look at the following information to learn more.  If you have any questions, or if you’d like to get guidance on your individual estate plan needs, contact an estate planning attorney.

 

• Consult with a qualified estate planning attorney

 

Work with a qualified estate planning attorney.  While legally, you can create your own legal documents or download them from the internet, it’s not recommended.  Do-it-yourselfers often find that their estate plans don’t work and they end up paying much more in the long run.

 

• Consider using more than just a will

 

A will is a powerful estate planning tool that allows you to prepare for the future.  Unfortunately, it won’t allow you to plan for all of your needs.  Do you want to protect your assets? Are you looking to plan for possible disability?  Do you want to avoid probate?  In order to achieve these needs, you will need other estate planning tools.  Your estate planning attorney will explain the benefits of a revocable living trust, living will, powers of attorney for health care and finances, and organ donation authorizations.

 

• Keep your plan neat and organized

 

Make sure that your plan is easily accessible.  Once you have a plan in place, make sure that it’s used, when needed.  You should also keep your files in a safe place so that they’re free from damage or theft.  Tell your loved ones where you plan to store all of your documents.

 

If you’re ready to begin your estate planning, consult with a qualified estate planning attorney.