Getting Started in Estate Planning

Most people agree they need a will, but many never get around to doing anything about it.  Will planning generally starts with a call to an attorney, but it’s important to put your thoughts together before that first meeting.  Here is a worksheet that may help:

My Will Planning Objectives

Check the goals that apply to you and assign priorities (1, 2 or 3), with one (1) being the highest.
__ I wish to provide for the financial security of my surviving spouse/partner.  PRIORITY_______
__ I want to ensure that my children or other dependents are cared for and educated. PRIORITY_____
__ I want to make bequests to adult children or others.  PRIORITY _______
__ I want to provide for a family member or friend who has special needs.  PRIORITY ________
__ I want to minimize state/federal “death taxes” and income taxes on my estate.  PRIORITY______
__ I want to arrange for the continuation of my business.  PRIORITY _______
__ I want to leave a personal message to my friends or family (an “ethical will”).  PRIORITY______
__ I want to arrange for healthcare decisions should I become incapacitated.  PRIORITY ______
__ I want to name someone to handle financial matters if I’m incapacitated.  PRIORITY _______
__ I want to provide in my estate plan for the organizations I support.  PRIORITY ______
__ I’m interested in charitable gifts that provide lifetime benefits to me or my family. PRIORITY ______
__ Other: ____________________________________________________PRIORITY_______
__ Other: ____________________________________________________PRIORITY _______
__ Other: ____________________________________________________PRIORITY _______

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