Legal Guidance From Attorneys Who Care

Estate planning mistakes to avoid

On Behalf of | May 1, 2023 | Estate Planning

Estate planning is an essential part of life planning. It involves deciding how your assets will be distributed after you pass away. While many people understand the importance of estate planning, they often make mistakes that can lead to unintended consequences. 

Here, you can learn about some of the most common estate planning mistakes you should avoid. 

Failing to create an estate plan

One of the biggest estate planning mistakes is failing to create an estate plan. Without a plan, your assets will be distributed according to state law, which may not align with your wishes.

Not updating your estate plan

Another common mistake is creating an estate plan but failing to update it as circumstances change. Life events such as marriage, divorce, birth and death can all affect your estate plan, and if you don’t update your plan, it can lead to unintended consequences.

Not considering tax implications

Estate planning should consider potential tax implications, including estate, income and gift taxes. If you don’t consider the tax implications, your heirs may have to pay them. 

Not considering all assets

All assets should be included in your estate plan. This includes personal property, real estate, investments and life insurance policies. If you don’t include all your assets, there may be issues with estate distribution when you pass away. 

Failing to name beneficiaries

Naming beneficiaries is essential to estate planning. If you don’t, it may result in assets being distributed according to state law instead of your wishes.

It is important to create an estate plan, so your wishes are known. However, you should avoid the mistakes mentioned above. Knowing your legal rights and options is the best way to prevent issues. 

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