Estate Planning Services

Estate Planning Services

What Is the State of Your Estate?

Formally documenting your wishes for your estate may seem daunting, as it involves grappling with your mortality. But it is crucial part of a comprehensive wealth plan, one that goes beyond finances and cash flow.

Formal estate plans can help:
  • Lead to timely, efficient estate settlement and distributions to beneficiaries
  • Reduce potential family dynamics issues
  • Prevent unwanted tax liability
  • Provide comfort and continuity that your wishes will be followed as you age and after you’re gone
  • Align your wealth transfer with your charitable vision.

It’s important to remember that your estate plan isn’t set in stone. You should revisit it at least annually to account for changes to your goals or life. We can refer you to Wells Fargo affiliates  or work with your existing estate plan provider to provide crucial guidance for this pillar of effective wealth management.

Essential Estate Planning Documents

The number of documents in your estate plan will depend entirely on your circumstances, but these five can be considered must-haves for most people.

Will

This legal document expresses your wishes for distributing your property after you die. Establishing a will is important, especially if you have minor children or significant assets.

Durable Power of Attorney

This gives someone else authority to make financial decisions on your behalf if you become unable. This is highly recommended as it ensures your finances will be handled properly if you cannot do so yourself.

Living Will

This outlines your wishes for end-of-life care, including life support or other medical treatments.