Preparing for your first estate planning appointment involves gathering and organizing important information to ensure your attorney can create a plan that meets your needs. To make the most of your meeting and set a solid foundation for your estate plan, it’s important to come prepared. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you gather and organize the necessary information:
- Determine Your Goals: Think about what you want to achieve with your estate plan. This could include things like providing for your family, minimizing taxes, or planning for disability.
- Make a List of Assets: Document all your assets, including real estate, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, and personal property. Note their values and account numbers.
- Gather Important Documents: Collect documents that may be relevant, such as property deeds, bank statements, insurance policies, and previous wills or trusts.
- Consider Your Beneficiaries: Decide who you want to inherit your assets. This could be family members, friends, or charitable organizations.
- Choose Executors and Trustees: Think about who you trust to handle your estate and manage any trusts. This could be a family member, friend, or a professional.
- Plan for Minor Children: If you have minor children, decide who you want to appoint as their guardians. This is an important decision and should be discussed with the potential guardians beforehand.
- Review Your Healthcare and Financial Powers of Attorney: Consider who will make medical and financial decisions for you if you become incapacitated. (You don’t need to chose the same person for these two types of decisions.)
- Prepare Questions: Think of any questions or concerns you have about the estate planning process or specific aspects of your plan.
- Organize Your Information: Create a folder or binder with all the information and documents you’ve gathered. This will help your attorney understand your situation quickly.
- Be Ready to Discuss Your Family Dynamics: Be open about any family dynamics that might affect your estate plan, such as conflicts or special considerations.
Having this information prepared will help your attorney provide more accurate advice and create a plan that aligns with your goals. If you’re ready to begin your estate planning journey, reach out to our office today to schedule a consultation. We’re here to help you every step of the way! Call Roth Elder Law today to schedule an initial meeting at 607-962-6162 or complete this intake form and we’ll be in touch.