Estate planning, also known as life planning, is about taking proactive steps to prepare for life’s inevitable challenges such as incapacity, disability, financial hurdles, and death.
Many people mistakenly believe that estate planning is only necessary as they age or accumulate significant assets. However, the truth is that anyone who finds themselves in the following situations should consider estate planning as a necessity rather than an option:
– Have children who are 18 years and older;
– Own a primary residence or investment properties;
– Have minor children or a child with special needs;
– Own a business or businesses;
– Are nearing retirement;
– Have aging parents who may require assisted living, nursing home care, or in-home assistance;
– Have a “non-traditional” or “blended family” structure under the law;
– Concerned about the well-being of loved ones in the event of your incapacity, disability, or death;
– Worried about leaving assets to an adult child with substance abuse issues, mental health challenges, or financial immaturity;
– Want to maintain control over your quality of life and care as you age;
– Prefer that most of your assets go to your family rather than taxes; or
– Desire to leave a legacy or make a positive impact on the world.
Estate planning is crucial for ensuring that your loved ones are cared for during life’s unexpected turns. It serves various purposes, including:
– Minimizing taxes;
– Shielding assets from creditors;
– Avoiding common financial pitfalls that can lead to significant losses for you and your family; and
– Planning for future financial security.
Even if you already have estate planning documents in place, it’s essential to review and update them periodically to align with your evolving financial strategies and intentions. Significant life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or disabilities often necessitate these updates.
Our compassionate legal team is here to guide you through the complexities of life planning by preparing essential documents tailored to your needs, including:
– Wills and Trusts (Revocable Trusts and Irrevocable Medicaid Planning Asset Protection Trusts);
– Health Care Proxies and Advanced Directives;
– HIPAA Releases;
– Powers of Attorney;
– The Homestead Act Protection;
– Life Insurance and Long-Term Care Insurance; and
– Living Wills, and more.
Contact our office to discuss your individual life/estate planning goals, needs, and objectives. (781) 596-0151. We are dedicated to helping you secure peace of mind and protect the people you love.
