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Estate Planning Considerations for the New Year

by | Dec 19, 2023 | Estate Planning

The advent of the new year is a good time to review your estate plan or create one if you don’t have one yet. An estate plan is a set of legal documents that specify how you want your assets, debts, and personal affairs to be handled after your death or incapacity. It can also include instructions for your health care and end-of-life decisions.

There are many reasons to create an estate plan or update an existing one, such as:

  • To protect your beneficiaries and heirs from probate, taxes, creditors, and disputes.
  • To ensure that your wishes are respected and carried out according to your values and preferences.
  • To avoid potential conflicts and confusion among your family members and loved ones.
  • To provide for the care and support of your minor children, dependents, or pets.
  • To support a charitable cause or organization that is important to you.
  • To plan for the possibility of your own incapacity or disability.

An estate plan can consist of various documents, such as:

  • A Will, which names your executor, beneficiaries, guardians, and other provisions.
  • A Trust, which holds and distributes your assets according to your instructions.
  • A Power of Attorney, which authorizes someone to act on your behalf in financial and legal matters.
  • A Health Care Proxy, which appoints someone to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to do so.
  • A Living Will, which expresses your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments and palliative care.

Depending on your situation and goals, you may need some or all of these documents to create a comprehensive estate plan.

Estate planning is not a one-time event; It is an ongoing process that requires periodic review and adjustment. You should update your estate plan whenever there are significant changes in your life, such as:

  • Marriage, divorce, or remarriage
  • Birth or adoption of a child or grandchild
  • Death or disability of a spouse, partner, beneficiary, or executor
  • Inheritance, gift, or sale of a substantial asset
  • Relocation to another state or country
  • Changes in tax laws or regulations

By creating or updating your estate plan in the new year, you can ensure that it reflects your current situation and wishes. You can also give yourself and your loved ones peace of mind and security for the future.

For more information on estate planning contact John R. Tullio at 216-621-7860.

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