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Estate Planning Checklist for the New Year

As you enter the new year, making any necessary changes to your estate plan is essential. Setting aside time this year to create your estate plan is important.

January 22, 2024

Whether you're just starting or revisiting your estate plan, it's essential to begin by creating an inventory of your assets and debts. A Williamsburg estate planning attorney can guide you on how you should best catalog your bank accounts, investments, properties, and any outstanding loans or debts.

Review and Update Your Beneficiary Designations

Making sure your beneficiary designations are up to date is important to guarantee that your assets go to the intended beneficiaries. If you want to make changes, a Williamsburg estate planning attorney can help by reviewing and making changes to your life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other similar arrangements, if necessary.

Plan for Incapacity with Advance Directives

Planning for incapacity is an often overlooked but necessary part of estate planning. Having advance directives, such as a durable power of attorney and a healthcare proxy, is crucial. These legal documents establish who will make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. 

Create or Update Your Will

One of the most important components of a comprehensive estate plan is a will. It allows you to specify who will inherit your assets, assign a guardian for minor children, and name an executor to fulfill your wishes. A Williamsburg estate planning attorney can assist you in drafting or updating your will to ensure it reflects your current circumstances and desires.

Consider Establishing a Trust

Depending on your circumstances, it may be beneficial to establish a trust. Trusts provide additional control, protection, and privacy in the distribution of your assets. A Williamsburg estate planning attorney will guide you through the various trust options available and help you choose the one that best suits your needs.

Seek Professional Guidance

Estate planning involves complex legal and financial matters. Seek the expertise of a reputable Williamsburg estate planning attorney who specializes in this area of law. They will provide personalized advice and assurance that your wishes are legally sound and protected.

Since estate planning can be tedious, seeking professional guidance is crucial. A dedicated Williamsburg estate planning attorney will make sure your estate plan is legally sound and tailored to your specific needs.

Contact Pedersen Law, PLLC Today

As you enter the new year, making any necessary changes to your estate plan is essential. Setting aside time this year to create your estate plan is important. Secure your future and the future of your loved ones by consulting with a highly skilled Williamsburg estate planning attorney. Contact Pedersen Law, PLLC, today to schedule a consultation.