“Get Your ‘Estate’ Together: Don’t Forget These 10 Things In Your Comprehensive Estate Planning”

Estate planning is a proactive and essential step to ensure your assets, wishes, and loved ones are protected and cared for according to your desires. Whether you’re just starting to build your estate plan or revisiting an existing one, let’s guide you through the critical elements that should be included to achieve comprehensive estate planning.

1)  Valid Will:

A will is the cornerstone of your estate plan. It outlines how your assets should be distributed after your passing. Be sure to clearly identify beneficiaries, specify your wishes, and appoint an executor to carry out your instructions.

2)  Living Will and Healthcare Proxy:

In the event of incapacitation, a living will and healthcare proxy ensure that your medical preferences are known and respected. Designate a trusted individual to make medical decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.

3)  Financial Power of Attorney:

Appoint someone you trust as your financial power of attorney. This person will manage your financial affairs if you’re unable to do so, ensuring bills are paid, investments are managed, and financial matters are handled appropriately.

4)  Trusts for Asset Protection and Distribution:

Depending on your goals, establishing trusts can help manage and protect your assets during your lifetime and facilitate their smooth distribution to beneficiaries after your passing.

5)  Guardianship for Minor Children:

If you have minor children, designate a guardian who will care for them if you and your spouse are no longer able to do so. Discuss this decision with the chosen guardian to ensure their willingness and preparedness.

6)  Inventory of Assets and Debts:

Compile a comprehensive list of your assets (bank accounts, investments, real estate, etc.) and debts (mortgages, loans, credit cards). This inventory will help your executor manage your estate efficiently.

7)  Beneficiary Designations:

Regularly review and update beneficiary designations on accounts like retirement plans, life insurance policies, and annuities to ensure they align with your estate plan.

8)  Digital Assets and Online Accounts:

Include a plan for your digital assets, including social media accounts, email accounts, and digital files. Specify whether you want them deleted or managed by a trusted individual.

9)  Funeral and Burial Preferences:

Express your funeral and burial preferences to relieve your loved ones of difficult decisions during a challenging time.

10)  Regular Updates and Reviews:

Life is dynamic, and your estate plan should reflect changes in your circumstances. Regularly review and update your plan after major life events, such as marriage, divorce, birth, or significant financial changes.

Creating a comprehensive estate plan is an act of love and responsibility towards yourself and your loved ones. By including these critical elements in your estate planning, you can ensure that ALL your wishes are respected, ALL your assets are protected, and your legacy endures as a lasting testament to you. Dusten will help you navigate the complexities and nuances of estate planning and create a plan tailored to your unique situation and mitigate risks of contention regarding your estate in the future. With your estate in order, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your affairs are well-managed, regardless of what the future may hold.

How Can We Help Get Your “Estate” Together?

At Utah’s Lawyers, our Utah Estate Planning Attorneys provide unique legal insight and customized strategies that allow individuals to confidently outline solutions for their complete legal needs.

Contact us today to schedule an initial estate assessment with Dusten to discuss your estate today by calling 801-316-8956.