As we tell all of our clients, deciding to begin the estate planning process it the hardest part! Once you make that initial appointment to create these important documents, we will guide you every step of the way. Here’s the process:
- Once you book your appointment, you will be sent a planning kit that will help you gather the information and documents needed to prepare your Estate Plan. For example, you will need to bring any Wills or Incapacity Planning documents you may already have in place. You will need to determine who you will be appointing for roles such as Guardian of Minor Children, Trustee, Executor, Powers of Attorney, etc. In addition, you’ll need to decide to whom your estate will transfer upon your death. Are these terms confusing? Don’t worry – you’ll also receive our Estate Planning Quick Reference Guide, which includes a glossary of Estate Planning terms, Estate Planning FAQ and more. The forms will guide you through this process.
- You’ll bring those completed forms to your appointment, which will last for about an hour. We will review the forms, talk you through any questions you may have, and ensure that your wishes are understood.
- After this meeting you will receive a list of follow-up tasks to complete, including gathering contact information for those you have named in your will, and coming up with your desired asset distribution plan.
- Once we receive the follow-up information a Will draft will be created; this will go back and forth for edits until you are satisfied with your plan.
- Once you are satisfied with your Will, you’ll once again come in for a brief appointment to go over everything and sign the documents in the presence of 2 additional witnesses. Your documents will be scanned and presented to you on a USB drive.
That’s it! Now you can rest easy that your affairs are in order and that you and your family are prepared for whatever the future brings.