At the Law Office of Conrad Willkomm, P.A., we are committed to serving clients throughout Southwest Florida. Our experienced team of lawyers understands how confusing estate planning can be if you’re new to the process. That is why we want to take the time to help you understand the basics of estate planning. Below, our legal professionals answer common questions about what needs to be included in an estate plan.
Why Do I Need an Estate Plan?
If you have important or valuable property that you want to go to your loved ones after you die, you will need to have a strong estate plan in place to make sure your wishes are carried out. Without an estate plan, your loved ones will find it difficult to obtain everything you left behind for them.
Important Things to Include in Your Estate Plan
Make sure you have the following things included in your estate plan:
- Last Will and Testament
- Separate Writing Memorandum
- Trusts
- Durable Power of Attorney
- A Personal Representative and Trustee to distribute your property and handle your affairs
- Health Care Surrogate, Living Will, and HIPPA Release for end of life decisions
- Guardian provisions for your minor children
You also need to make plans for the following assets:
- Your home
- Businesses you own
- Stocks
- Life insurance policies
- Retirement accounts
- Other real estate properties you own
- Bank Accounts
When Is the Best Time to Start Planning My Estate?
Get started planning your estate as soon as possible! Don’t put it off! If you die without an estate plan in place, your loved ones will have to deal with the probate process to obtain the assets and property you wanted to go to them. The probate process results in unnecessary burdens such as time delays and expenses. This is why it is crucial to start planning your estate right away, otherwise your affairs might end up being handled by someone you do not trust or result in having your assets go to someone you would not prefer.
Call (239) 303-4040 today to schedule a free consultation with one of our estate planning lawyers in Southwest Florida.