Each of us want to be remembered. Your legacy may be that you contributed to a charity, senior center, a church or you leave your assets to loved ones. No matter what you choose to do with your assets, you need to put it in writing so that your wishes will be carried through. The way to do that is to establish an estate plan. Nobody knows what the future holds so the best way to be prepared is to plan. Estate planning offers peace of mind for anyone, young or old. These documents ensure your financial affairs, your healthcare desires, and the distribution of your estate will be done as specified by your wishes. The thought of planning for your future can feel a bit morbid and maybe you think it’s even too early to think about or too expensive, but we cannot emphasize enough that it is never too early to start planning, especially when minor children are involved. The lack of planning can lead to far more expense if you wait for an emergency situation or even a death, and your family is left to do it on their own. Many people think that a last will and testament (“will”) is the only estate planning document that they need. What they do not realize is that a will does not keep their estate out of probate, which is expensive and time consuming to the loved ones left behind. A will should be included in any estate plan, however it is only one piece of the larger puzzle. Trusts are used to accomplish goals that can’t be achieved through a will alone. For example, a trust might eliminate the need for probate, help reduce estate taxes, preserve assets for minors until they reach a specific age, provide for educational, health, or other needs of beneficiaries, and specify how you wish to contribute to charitable or religious organizations. Do not let the idea of a trust intimidate you - they can be a very helpful tool to accomplish your goals. Some families decide to set up their estate plan through the use of beneficiary designations on their assets. This will avoid probate for any asset with a beneficiary designation, however could lead to an unequal distribution of assets among multiple beneficiaries. At Northwest Missouri Elder Law, LLC, we can help you with all types of plans to address your family relationships, assets and goals. Estate plans are tailored to your individual desires and allow you to pass your assets to your children, charity, church or other beneficiaries as seamlessly as possible. Whatever your circumstances, you may need to consider an array of documents to make sure your wishes are carried out should you become ill, disabled or pass away. We will explain the options you have and offer advice as to what will best suit your needs and accomplish your goals. You can then make an informed decision about how you personally want to move forward with your estate plan. Estate planning gives you the power to make decisions while you are still able to do so which will give you peace of mind to know you and your family are taken care of today and in the future. Northwest Missouri Elder Law, LLC offers estate planning services such as: Power of Attorney for Finances Power of Attorney for Healthcare (including a Living Will) Last Will and Testament Revocable Living Trust Special Needs Trust Beneficiary Deed Business entity formation and succession planning (LLC) Now, is the time to start planning for your future. Northwest Missouri Elder Law, LLC is committed to caring for the estate planning needs of individuals and families throughout the Northwest Missouri area.