LIFE STAGE ESTATE PLANNING

Estate planning isn’t just for the elderly—it’s for everyone, no matter your age or financial background. Let us help you secure your legacy and gain peace of mind.

Planning for Singles

Singles should prioritize plans for financial and medical decisions in case of emergencies. Estate planning is especially crucial for those without close relatives.

Key Documents: A living will, powers of attorney, and HIPAA authorizations ensure your wishes are honored if incapacitated.
Asset Distribution: Without a will, state law determines your heirs, which may not reflect your preferences for friends, partners, or charities.
Unmarried Partners: Protect non-legal partners by explicitly naming them in your estate plan.
Young Adults: Basic estate documents prevent complications in emergencies.

Planning for Married Couples

Marriage adds shared responsibilities, making estate planning essential to protect your spouse and children.

Understand Asset Ownership: Clarify marital vs. separate property to simplify future planning.
Powers of Attorney: Authorize your spouse to handle financial and medical matters if you’re unable to.
Guardianship: Name guardians for minor children.
Pets: Include provisions for pet care.
Minimize Probate Conflicts: A clear plan reduces stress and disputes for loved ones.

Planning for Children & Minors

Secure your children’s future with an estate plan.

Guardianship: Name trusted individuals to care for your children.
Financial Management: Use trusts or fiduciaries to oversee inheritances responsibly.
Avoid Court Decisions: Planning ensures your wishes guide decisions, not state laws.

Planning for Blended Families

Blended families face unique challenges, requiring careful planning to protect all members.

Update Plans: Reflect remarriages or new children.
Prevent Disinheritance: Protect children from previous relationships.
Minimize Disputes: Clearly outline your intentions.

Planning During Peak Earning Years

Your peak earning years (40-55) are ideal for strengthening your estate plan.

Tax Efficiency: Optimize retirement accounts and reduce tax burdens.
Business Succession: Ensure a smooth transition for family businesses.
Health Directives: Update living wills and powers of attorney.

Planning When Nearing Retirement

As retirement approaches, refine your estate plan to address evolving priorities.

Long-Term Care: Plan for potential nursing home or assisted living expenses.
Document Updates: Reflect major life changes like remarriage or grandchildren.
Avoid Medicaid Penalties: Address the 5-year look-back period to secure benefits.

Planning When Single Again

Divorce or widowhood is the perfect time to revisit or create a plan that fits your new circumstances.

Update Wills: Remove ex-spouses and adjust beneficiaries.
Protect Assets: Consider prenuptial agreements for future relationships.
Ensure Fair Distribution: Clarify intentions for children from previous relationships.

Planning for Retirement

Retirement is an opportunity to review your estate plan and safeguard your legacy.

Essential Documents: Living wills and powers of attorney protect your preferences.
Trusts: Simplify asset distribution and reduce taxes.
Long-Term Care: Plan for future medical needs to secure your estate.