Whether you’re wealthy or not, you need to do some estate planning – because when you do, you can control your own legacy. But what steps should you take? First, you’ll need to identify your important goals.
You’ll want to arrange for assets to go to your loved ones, of course, but there’s more to estate planning than that. For example, who will make financial and health-care decisions for you if you become incapacitated? If you have minor children, who will take care of them if you’re not around? And if your estate is large enough, how can you help protect your loved ones from income and estate taxes?
The solutions to these issues can involve a number of legal arrangements, such as establishing a will and a living trust and arranging for a power of attorney, to name just a few. And you’ll need to work with a team of professionals, including your tax and financial advisors and an estate planning attorney.
By identifying your objectives and working with your professional team, you can create an effective estate plan – and help yourself take charge of your legacy.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.