Estate planning is arranging your affairs so that when you die, your property is preserved and distributed the way that you want and offers peace of mind.
When should I plan my estate?
Now would be a good time if you have any savings, life insurance, investments, or other assets. Your estate includes all your possessions, both financial and non-financial.
It does not have to be complicated, and you don’t have to do it alone. Your lawyer, accountant, and advisor can help you build a plan.
If you don’t have a will, this is the first step. If you die without a will, provincial legislation will step in and distribute your estate according to its rules.
How do I plan my estate? Six simple steps
Step #1: Define and prioritize your goals. Decide what you want to do with your estate during your lifetime and at death.
Step #2: Take Inventory. List all your financial and non-financial assets in one document. Ask us today for a great personal records organizer. It is a good idea to update this regularly and this will be a huge help to your executor.
Step #3: Build your plan. With your goals and inventory in hand, you are ready to create your estate plan. Your professionals will help you walk through your options and help make decision.
Step #4: Implement your plan. Now is the time to act like drafting or updating a current will. Make sure to discuss your plans with those who you have authorized as an executor or power of attorney. Explain your expectations and tell them where your important papers are.
Step #5: Share your plan. Consider sharing your plans with your key family members and professional advisors.
Step #: Monitor and adjust. If anything in your life has changed, work with your advisor and other professionals to adjust your plan. Contact us today for a yearly check-up for estate planning guide.
The goal of this process is to help you and your family feel more confident about the future and offer you peace of mind.