What’s In Your Estate Plan?

The older we get, the more critical it is to ensure our affairs are in order and have an estate plan. But what exactly is an estate plan, and what should be included?

An estate plan is the management and organization of your assets should you pass away. It also includes documentation determining who can make medical and financial decisions should you become incapacitated. For individuals and families in Rochester, NY, understanding estate planning basics can make a significant difference.

Most people think that estate planning just includes a will. While a will is a beneficial document, other documents should be included in your estate plan.

• A will (also called a last will and testament) specifies how you want your estate to be distributed. Besides dividing up your assets, a will also appoints guardianship for minor children. This last item is essential to designate; you don’t want a court determining who your children should live with in the event of your death. If your estate includes a revocable trust, a will is still needed. Called a “pour-over will,” the goal of this document is to cover any assets that may not have made it over to the trust. For those in Rochester, NY, ensuring your will is properly prepared is a key step in effective estate planning.¹

• An advanced medical directive (medical power of attorney) establishes who can make medical decisions for you should you become unable to do so. A medical power of attorney also allows you to designate a conservator should you become mentally incapacitated. Understanding these documents is essential for thorough estate planning.¹

• A living will details to your physicians what type of care you want to receive at the end of your life when you face a terminal illness or are in a vegetative state. Do not resuscitate (DNR) and do not intubate orders are listed here. While a last will and testament is designed to specify your wishes upon your death, a living will determines what happens to you while you’re still alive. If you’re in Rochester, NY, including a living will in your estate planning ensures your healthcare preferences are respected.¹

• A financial power of attorney, much like a medical power of attorney, appoints someone to handle your financial affairs should you become unable to do so. There are two different types of financial powers of attorney: a durable power of attorney and a springing power of attorney. A durable power of attorney goes into effect as soon as the documents are signed, whereas a springing power of attorney only goes into effect if you become mentally incapacitated. For residents of Rochester, NY, having a clear financial power of attorney is a critical piece of your estate planning process.¹

• A revocable living trust is a more detailed document that details not just what happens after you’re gone or incapacitated but what happens while you’re alive, too. At its core, a revocable trust is a vehicle to hold your assets; meaning that until assets are moved over, it’s essentially just an empty vessel. If you have a more complicated estate, a revocable living trust can help manage a variety of assets and beneficiaries. As the trustee, you’ll still have control over your assets while they’re in the revocable living trust, and assets held in the trust will avoid probate after your death. For those living in Rochester, NY, a revocable trust is a valuable tool for comprehensive estate planning.¹,²

Estate plans are a necessary part of life, albeit one that no one really wants to think about. But having an estate plan is one of the kindest things you can do for your loved ones. You’ll gain peace of mind knowing that your family is taken care of, no matter what life throws at you. Whether you’re just starting or revisiting your plan in Rochester, NY, taking care of your estate planning now will ensure your loved ones are protected.

https://www.investopedia.com/articles/pf/07/estate_plan_checklist.asp

https://www.thebalance.com/what-is-a-revocable-living-trust-3505191

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information, and provided by Twenty Over Ten. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.