Estate planning is a process that involves more than just drafting a will. While you recognize the importance of this legal task, there are often key steps that you may not think of.
These are some commonly missed aspects of estate planning that can make a significant difference.
Thorough asset inventory
One of the common oversights in estate planning is a complete inventory of assets. You could focus on major assets like homes and bank accounts but forget about intellectual property or sentimental items. Creating a detailed list of all assets ensures that nothing is accidentally omitted.
Regular updates
Life is dynamic, and so are personal circumstances. Failing to update beneficiary designations on insurance policies, retirement accounts and other financial instruments can lead to unintended consequences.
A marriage or the birth of a child can drastically alter your desired distribution of assets. Regularly reviewing and updating beneficiary designations ensures that the intended recipients align with the current family and personal situation.
Digital assets
In the digital age, it is not just physical assets that need attention. Digital estate planning involves accounting for online accounts, social media profiles and other digital assets. In fact, Americans have an average of 7.1 social media accounts each.
Providing clear instructions on how to handle these accounts or appointing a digital executor can prevent complications and unauthorized access.
Healthcare directives and powers of attorney
Estate planning should address potential health issues. Establishing clear healthcare directives and appointing powers of attorney for both financial and healthcare matters ensures that others honor your wishes in case of incapacity.
Family communication
Effective estate planning goes beyond paperwork. It involves open and transparent communication with family members. Sharing the details of your plan with loved ones can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts after your passing.
A holistic approach to estate planning involves more than drafting a will. By paying attention to often overlooked steps, you can leave a legacy for future generations.