How to Create an Estate Plan

An estate plan is an important part of organizing your future. Legal forms used in estate planning let you stay in control of your care in the event of incapacitation and establish how your assets will be passed along when you pass on.

First

Find an estate planning attorney. You will need an experienced attorney to help you put together an estate plan. This can be a complicated matter that requires a great deal of legal paperwork.

Second

Organize your files and examine your assets. Your attorney will need to see the details of your assets.

Third

Discuss potential issues with your attorney. Do you anticipate a big fight among your children once you're gone? Do you have extensive debts that need to be paid off?

Fourth

Ensure you have a will. You may also want a living will so your wishes for your medical care are followed if you become incapacitated.  Learn more about wills in our articles, "A Simple Will: What to Include" and  "Do You Need a Will and How Can You Get One?"

Fifth

File beneficiary forms and make final arrangements. You will need to designate beneficiaries for your accounts and make final arrangements such as funeral plans.

It’s important to put together an estate plan so your estate goes to those you wish and to help those you leave behind make crucial decisions.

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