Estate Planning 101

What Is Estate Planning? 

Estate planning can sound like something reserved for the wealthy or the elderly — but the truth is, it’s a process meant for everyone. Whether you're thinking about your legacy, want to ease the burden on your loved ones, or simply need to get your documents in order, estate planning is one of the most thoughtful, practical gifts you can leave behind.

What Is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is the process of organizing your legal and financial affairs so that your wishes are followed when you're no longer here — or if you're ever unable to make decisions for yourself.

Think of it like this: estate planning helps answer these three questions for your loved ones:

1. What happens to your stuff?
   
   

2. Who’s in charge of making decisions?
   
   

3. How do you want to be cared for if you can’t speak for yourself?

Key Estate Planning Documents (The Essentials)

While everyone's plan will look a little different, most estate plans include the following:

• Will – A legal document that outlines who will inherit your assets and who will care for any minor children.
  
  

• Trust – A tool used to hold and manage assets, often used to avoid probate and provide more control over distribution.
  
  

• Power of Attorney – Gives someone the authority to make financial decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
  
  

• Healthcare Directive (Living Will) – States your wishes for medical treatment and can designate a healthcare proxy to make medical decisions if you're unable to.
  
  

HIPAA Authorization – Allows your loved ones to access your medical records when needed.

When Should You Start Estate Planning?

If you're over 18, you should have something in place — even if it's just a basic will and medical directive. That said, the best time to build or update your plan is when a major life change happens:

• Marriage or divorce
  
  

• Buying a home
  
  

• Having children or grandchildren
  
  

• Starting a business
  
  

• Inheriting assets
  
  

• A medical diagnosis
  
  

• Retirement
  
  

But honestly? Don’t wait for a big event. Start now — your future self (and your family) will thank you.

 Tips for Getting Organized

Estate planning doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Here’s how to get started:

1. Take inventory of your assets – Include your home, bank accounts, retirement funds, vehicles, insurance, and personal belongings.
   
   

2. List your liabilities – Mortgages, loans, credit card debt, etc.
   
   

3. Choose your key people – Executor, guardian for children, healthcare proxy, and power of attorney.
   
   

4. Gather key documents – Deeds, titles, bank statements, and beneficiary designations.
   
   

Put everything in one place – Create a binder or digital folder your loved ones can access when needed.

How to Work Efficiently with an Estate Planning Attorney

If you’re working with an attorney (and I recommend you do for anything beyond a basic will), you can save time and money by coming prepared.

Here’s what attorneys appreciate:

• Completed intake forms
  
  

• Organized lists of assets and accounts
  
  

• A clear idea of your goals and concerns
  
  

• Honest conversations about family dynamics or sensitive topics
  
  

• Willingness to ask questions — no such thing as a silly one!
  
  

Remember: estate planning is a collaborative process. A good attorney will walk you through the legalities, but your life, values, and voice should shape the plan.

Final Thoughts

Estate planning is ultimately about peace of mind — for you and for those you love. You don’t need to be an expert. You just need to start.

If you’re not sure where to begin, I offer tools and guidance to help you navigate both the practical and emotional side of legacy planning. Whether you need help organizing documents, understanding the process, or writing a meaningful obituary — I’m here for you.