There are many reasons why men don’t make a will. Usually, in my practice, it was the wife who scheduled the appointment and dragged her reluctant spouse to it. By asking a few questions, it was clear there were many misconceptions about estate planning and also a little fear.
However, once the husband reviewed the plan to protect their children, avoid probate, preserve assets and provide security for loved ones, he was firmly on board.
As a parent, you agonize over the care of your child. Are they eating enough? Sleeping enough? Hitting the right benchmarks? But have you thought about their care if you are not around?
Many parents have not got around to making a will to name guardians for their young children. According to a 2017 Caring.com poll, 58% of Americans don’t have a will. That means a large percentage of parents have not made provisions for their children if something happened to them.
Continue reading “Who would want your kids? Tips for choosing guardians”
Estate planning is critical not only to provide for your loved ones after your death, but also to protect yourself and them while you are alive. If you are suddenly incapacitated, who will take care of your financial, medical, and legal decisions? But how can you put together a comprehensive estate plan? Where do you start? Follow this helpful estate planning checklist to see what to update and what to put on your “to-do” list:
Continue reading “Estate planning checklist to jump start your estate planning”
Which estate planning myths are holding you back? Don’t have a will yet? You are not alone. According to a 2016 Harris poll on behalf of Rocket Lawyer: 64% of Americans don’t have a will. Why? Procrastination maybe. Or the fact that there are a lot of myths surrounding estate planning.
When making their wills, the biggest hurdle parents face is deciding who should take care of their minor children. This is especially difficult when parents can’t agree on who the best guardian is for their children.
Recognize that no one will be as good as you in understanding your children. However, that doesn’t mean your guardian can’t do their best. You must identify the next best person. It is not an easy decision, but naming guardians for your children is one you should make.