Estate Planning: 8 Steps to Get Ahead

I’ve worked with a number of estate planners, who typically have a “team” for clients: tax advisors, lawyers, accountants, insurance agents, appraisers and more. If you already have a robust plan in place, great! If you’re just getting started, this may help..

Estate Planning: 8 Steps to Get Ahead

Planning for the inevitable brings peace of mind—and saves your loved ones stress. 

✅ Talk with family – Share your wishes and where to find key documents.

✅ Write a will – Decide who gets what, and who’s in charge.

✅ Check retirement beneficiaries – These override your will.

✅ Consider a life insurance trust (ILIT) – Helps reduce estate taxes.

✅ Set up financial power of attorney – Let someone manage finances if you can’t.

✅ Add medical directives – Name who makes healthcare decisions, and outline your treatment wishes.

✅ Review regularly – Life changes? Update your plan.

✅ Work with a pro – Estate law is no DIY project.

Is your estate plan current—or still on the to-do list?