Top 10 Steps to Help You Prepare for Estate Planning

Top 10 Steps to Help You Prepare for Estate Planning

Are you someone who cares what happens to the people who matter to you? Would you do anything for them? What happens if you were no longer here? More specifically, do you know that if you die without a will, a Probate Judge may decide what your loved ones receive and when? When your voice has been silenced, don’t you still want to be heard? Follow these 10 easy steps below and you will be well on your way to planning a brighter future for yourself and loved ones.

1. Name that price

Put a price on your assets (What’s valuable and what’s not?)

2. Determine your worth

Determine what you are worth and list all your liabilities.

3. Stay covered

Make sure you have adequate coverage. So often, we are under-insured.

4. Don’t forget about the little ones

Small children and elderly people need to be considered when planning for your estate.

5. Choose a guardian

Be sure that younger children or an elderly person has a guardian

6. Develop a plan

The future will not take care of itself. Make a cohesive future plan for yourself. Expect the best, prepare for the worst.

7. Prepare a will

It’s important to prepare a will for your estate and also keep it updated.

8. Choose an executor

Identify someone who will be in charge of your estate if something were to happen to you.

9. Stay organized

Have all important documents organized and neatly stored in a designated location. That way, you can easily access the things you need in short notice. Be sure that someone you trust knows where to find these important documents.

10. Make it a conversation

Don’t be afraid to talk with your family openly now. Sure taxes are important, but your estate is just as important and so are those you love.

Althea DeBarr-Johnson

Althea DeBarr-Johnson is one of Atlanta’s most trusted attorneys for Estate Planning, Wills, Trusts, Probate Administration, Tax Representation, Guardianship and Conservatorship matters.