1) Myth: My spouse can make all of my healthcare and financial decisions because he/she is my spouse.
Reality: This is not always the case. To make sure your spouse can indeed make important medical decisions on your behalf, you should sign a durable power of attorney and a medical advance directive.
2) Myth: I’ve told my family how I want my affairs handled after I die. They’ll divide everything the way I want it divided.
Reality: Informal discussions about your affairs have no legal enforceability. Even if your immediate family does carry out your wishes, if there is a remarriage or divorce, for instance, your estate could end up in the hands of people you never intended to be beneficiaries. A properly executed will and other estate planning documents are the only way you can ensure your estate ends up where you want it to go.
3) Myth: I signed a will before, so I don’t need to do it again.
Reality: An old will may not reflect your current goals. You or your children may have married or remarried. Your property holdings may have changed. A trust may now be the preferred method to safeguard your legacy because of changes in your circumstances and needs. The only way to know for sure is to have a comprehensive estate plan review.
4) Myth: I am not wealthy enough to need an estate plan.
Almost everyone will benefit from estate planning, which addresses non-wealth aspects of your legacy along with the financial aspects. Estate planning can ensure someone you trust will care for your children and pets after your death, and make sure treasured family heirlooms end up where you want them to go. Estate planning also can help you pass along your values.
Moreover, trusts are not just for the wealthy: In states that practice Medicaid recovery, for instance, your survivors may receive a large bill for Medicaid-funded nursing home care after your death, which can force the sale of assets like the family home. Some states even seize life insurance proceeds. Depending on your situation, a trust can prevent this from happening. The only way to know for sure is to visit with an estate planning attorney to obtain personalized advice for your situation.
At Cheever Law, APC, we don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love, which all begins at a valuable and educational Life & Legacy Planning Session. The Life & Legacy Planning Session will allow you to get more financially organized than you’ve ever been before, and make all the best choices for the people you love. If you have already completed your estate plan, we will review that plan at your Life & Legacy Planning Session to ensure that it will work the way you intend and address any holes or gaps that may be present if circumstances have changed since the plan was executed.
To learn more about our one-of-a-kind systems and services, contact us or schedule an 15-minute introductory call today.
To learn what you need to keep your family out of court and out of conflict when something happens to you please register for our FREE educational Life & Legacy Planning Webinar. We look forward to serving you!