Your Estate Planning Checklist

Thinking about planning your estate can be uncomfortable. No one wants to think about their last wishes, and considering the many different parts of a comprehensive plan can be overwhelming. Fortunately, it does not have to be that way. Our Daytona Beach estate planning lawyer has created a checklist that breaks down the steps, making the process easier so you know what to expect.

List Your Goals 

The first step when creating an estate plan is to identify the goals you have for it. Maybe you have minor children you want to ensure are well cared for after you pass away. Or, maybe you want to donate to a favorite charity. If you are like most people, you likely have many goals for your estate plan and you do not want any of them to get overlooked. Consider everything you want your estate plan to achieve and then create a list of your goals.

Create an Inventory 

Before you can determine who will receive certain property, you must create a detailed list of everything you own, including your assets and liabilities. This inventory should include all assets that are in your name, including credit cards, bank accounts, retirement accounts, property deeds, insurance policies, and student loans.

Determine People Involved 

You will have to designate many people to many important roles when creating your estate plan. If you have minor children, you should name a guardian who you trust to take care of them in the event that you and their other biological parent pass away. You also need to consider your assets and who you want to inherit them. Additionally, you should also name a personal representative who will administer your estate. These are just a few of the designations you will have to make, so it is of critical importance that you consider who you trust enough to take on these roles.

Draft the Necessary Documents 

Estate plans only offer you and your family protection if they are properly executed. There are many different types of documents you may want to draft, and they all serve different purposes. You will likely need a will but may also want to draft a revocable trust, power of attorney, or other important legal documents. When you work with a Daytona Beach estate planning lawyer, they will ensure your paperwork is drafted properly.

Update When Necessary 

As your life changes, your estate plan does not automatically change with it. Revisit your estate plan every three to five years to ensure that it still reflects your current situation and wishes. Even without these regular updates, you should review your plan every time there is a significant life change, such as a birth or divorce, to make any necessary changes.

Call Our Estate Planning Lawyer in Daytona Beach 

Drafting an estate plan is important, but it is just as critical that you speak to a Daytona Beach estate planning lawyer that can help you do it. At Bundza & Rodriguez, our experienced attorney can advise on the legal tools that can help you achieve your estate planning goals and make sure you and your family are protected. Call us today at 386-252-5170 or contact us online to request a free consultation and to learn more.

Sources:

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