The COVID-19 pandemic has left many people facing many different challenges. Hopefully, the worst is over; however, the challenges and difficult times will continue for months or years. In that regard, we must all look toward the future and to plan for the future. One of the items that you need to prepare or update is your Estate Plan. On behalf of your family, take this opportunity to assure that your Estate Plan is up-to-date and in place so that your wishes are in place.
5 Estate Planning Essentials
Here are some activities that you should take:
- List your Assets: For bank, brokerage, retirement and other accounts of that nature list where that account is being held, the account number and its present balance.
- Review how your assets are owned/titled. For example, a bank account jointly held with rights to survivorship will pass directly to the joint owner upon the death of the other and will not pass through your Will or a probate proceeding.
- List your intentions as to what you desire to happen to your assets upon your death and devise a plan to accomplish those intentions.
- Perform the plan by having a knowledgeable and professional estate planning attorney draft the appropriate documents and make the appropriate changes to assure that your plans meet your intentions.
- You may have a Will, but do you have a plan? Many of us prepare our first Will when we are in our twenties. However, things change and so should your plan. Estate Plans should be reviewed annually and/or when there is a life changing event such as a marriage, death, birth, retirement, illness, etc.
How an Estate Planning Attorney Can Help
Everyone’s Estate Plan is different. Whatever stage in life you are, MCV Law can assist, advise and provide the necessary services for your Estate Plan.
MCV Law is working remotely during the COVID-19 crisis. However, we are available by phone, email or video conferencing to prepare any documents and perform the signing of said documents pursuant to and in accordance with New York State Law.
Now is the time to plan for your future, for your sake, and to provide guidance for those left. MCV Law is ready to help you to identify what steps you need to take, who you need to involve and how to put a plan in place.