05/05/2025
When should I start planning my estate?
People often wonder whether they’re too young or too old to begin planning their estate. There is no specific age for starting this process; the right time to begin planning might be right now.
Estate planning uses legal tools to protect your property, your healthcare, and your family. Your specific needs depend on your age, your finances and your personal circumstances.
It‘s a good idea for adults of any age to have a written will. A will names beneficiaries to receive property and an executor to settle your estate. Parents can even name guardians for their young children.
By creating an advance directive, you can record your wishes regarding medical care and name a person to make medical decisions if you become incapacitated.
If you own a house or other valuable assets, you might consider a living trust, which holds your property during your lifetime and then transfers assets to your heirs, without the delay or expense of probate.
No matter your age or circumstances, having an estate plan can minimize stress for you and reduce hardship for your loved ones after your death. An experienced estate planning attorney in your area can help you decide which tools make the most sense for you.
If you aren’t ready to meet with an attorney, you can still research your options and decide on the goals you wish to achieve when you do begin the estate planning process.
