Estate Planning - Simplified (Your Guide to Estate Planning)

Navigating the world of estate planning can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be a complex process. This guide is designed to walk you through the essentials of planning for your future, breaking it down into straightforward steps. From expressing your wishes to benefitting your loved ones, and understanding the importance of trusts, we'll cover everything in simple terms. Whether you're just starting to think about your estate or ready to take action, this guide aims to make estate planning understandable and accessible. All you need is a few meetings, and you can have a complete plan tailored to your needs.

1. Is this required reading?

No, it's not obligatory. While some clients appreciate this information, we'll go through everything you need in our meetings. With our guidance, you can have your full plan in place after just two sessions.

2. Why do I need an Estate Plan?

“If you don't design your own life plan, chances are you'll fall into someone else's plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not much.” Jim Rohn.

If you don't set a plan for the future for your loved ones, they'll be stuck with whatever plan the government hands them. If a person dies without an estate plan, or "intestate," the state laws dictate how the deceased's assets will be distributed. This means that the government essentially creates a plan for you, and it might not align with your personal wishes. The probate court will oversee the distribution of assets to your closest relatives according to a legal formula, which may include your spouse, children, parents, or other family members, depending on who is living at the time of your death.

Make Your Wishes Known

Through estate planning, you write down what you want to happen so your desires can be known if you're unable to communicate due to sickness, injury, or death.

Help Your Family

With the proper documents reflecting your desires, your family will find it easier and more cost-effective to execute your wishes.

3. What Will Your Estate Plan Include?

Your estate plan details what you want in two potential situations: If you become incapacitated & ill, or if you die. Three key aspects need to be addressed: Property, Health & Body, and Children (or anyone else you care for). A comprehensive plan has the necessary document for each situation.

4. Why Do You Need a Trust?

After death, your financial affairs continue – your name remains on deeds, bank accounts, and more. Someone must manage assets, clear debts, and transfer belongings to the rightful heirs.

Without a Trust = Probate Court. It take court authority to manage your assets if you pass away without an estate plan. The process takes time and money, often costing over $25,000 and taking 12-18 months. It's a hassle.

With a Trust = Quicker and Economical. Your trust document allows your chosen individual (the Trustor) to handle your assets without court intervention. Usually, it costs around $5,000 and takes 6-9 months.

Our Simple 5-Step Process

Most clients need only 2-3 HOURS, typically over 3 weeks, to complete the whole plan. Some can even do it in a day. Here's a breakdown:

1. PRE-MEET

You'll get a secure online form. Fill in what you can about your family and assets, making our first meeting more productive. No specific account details needed.

*If you haven't completed it before the 1ST MEETING, don't stress.

2,.1ST MEETING: Overview

We'll discuss fundamental things like your estate and goals, using your filled QUESTIONNAIRE. Most questions are straightforward.

*Your answers aren't final but guide us in drafting your plan.

3. YOU GET A COPY OF YOUR 1ST DRAFT OF YOUR PLAN

You'll get a DRAFT of your plan via a secure link. Your specific choices are highlighted.

*If you can't review the draft right away, no worries.

4. 2ND MEETING: Specifics

We'll review each document and your choices, making updates as needed.

1. Changes can be made now.

2. Once you agree, we'll explain next steps.

3. We'll provide a checklist for trust funding and FAQs to maximize your plan.

5. FINALIZE: Signing & Funding

1. Use our contactless notary to sign – no need to print anything.

2. We'll record your deed and mail it back.

3. Finish the trust funding checklist at your convenience.

PAYMENT: Simple and Credit Cards Accepted

For Couples – $4000

For Individuals – $2000

Talk with an Attorney