Tips for Setting Up an Estate Plan

Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes. It’s not just for the wealthy or elderly; everyone can benefit from preparing an estate plan. From safeguarding your legacy to reducing stress for your loved ones, an estate plan offers peace of mind for you and your family.

Estate planning involves creating a clear plan for managing your assets, legal affairs, and healthcare in the event of incapacity or death. This process may include will preparation, selecting powers of attorney, establishing trusts, or managing tax responsibilities. If you’re unsure where to start, don’t worry. Below, we’ve outlined essential tips to help you set up an estate plan.

Why is Estate Planning Essential?

• Protect your assets and ensure they are distributed as you wish.
• Minimize family conflicts by providing clear instructions.
• Reduce taxes and legal fees by structuring your estate properly.
• Appoint guardians for minor children or dependents.
• Plan healthcare decisions in case you're unable to communicate your wishes.

5 Tips for Setting Up an Estate Plan

1. Start with Will Preparation
A will is a foundational document in any estate plan. It outlines who inherits your assets, who will care for your minor children, and what instructions should be followed upon your passing. Having a will can also simplify the probate process, ensuring a smoother distribution of your assets. If you're not sure how to get started, consider consulting an estate planning attorney who can guide you through the process and draft a legally binding document tailored to your needs.

2. Work with an Estate Planning Attorney
Estate laws can vary depending on your state, and a professional attorney will understand how to address your specific needs efficiently. The team at Chambers & Ennis specializes in estate administration, will preparation, and setting up trusts. They can help you avoid common mistakes and ensure that your estate plan is legally sound.

3. Consider Setting Up Trusts
A trust can help protect your assets, minimize estate taxes, and avoid probate altogether. Trusts are particularly useful for specific goals, such as supporting family members with special needs or ensuring property is managed for minors until they come of age. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you determine whether a trust is right for your estate.

4. Plan for Incapacity
One essential but often overlooked part of estate planning is preparing for the possibility of incapacity. Designate a durable power of attorney to manage your finances if you're unable to do so. Additionally, create a healthcare directive or living will to outline your medical preferences. These steps ensure your wishes are honored and reduce stress for your loved ones during difficult times.

5. Review and Update Your Plan
Life changes, and so should your estate plan. Major events like marriage, childbirth, divorce, or purchasing a significant asset may require updates to your plan. Regularly review your estate plan to ensure it remains current and reflective of your life and goals.

Contact Our Estate Planning Attorney

With decades of experience, Chambers & Ennis has been a trusted partner in estate administration for clients throughout Cary, Apex, Raleigh, Wake Forest, Holly Springs, NC, and beyond. Whether you need help with probate, will preparation, or setting up special needs trusts, our team provides professional guidance tailored to your unique situation.

Don’t leave important decisions to chance. With the help of our estate planning attorneys, you can create a plan that protects everything you own and everyone you love. Call Chambers & Ennis to schedule a consultation today.