What are the most common mistakes people make when creating an estate plan?
As a lawyer, I can tell you that one of the most common mistakes people make when creating an estate plan is failing to update it regularly. Estate plans should be reviewed and updated every few years, or anytime a major life event occurs, such as the birth of a child or grandchild, marriage, divorce, or the death of a loved one.
Another mistake people make is not considering all of their assets when creating an estate plan. Many people focus only on their tangible assets, such as real estate or investments, and forget about their digital assets, such as social media accounts or online bank accounts.
Additionally, not having a comprehensive plan for long-term care is a common mistake. It's important to consider how you will pay for costly medical expenses in old age, such as nursing home care, and to have a plan in place for managing these expenses.
Finally, not properly designating beneficiaries or failing to update beneficiary designations is another common estate planning mistake. Failing to name beneficiaries, or naming outdated or incorrect ones, can lead to significant legal and financial issues for your loved ones after your passing.
To avoid these mistakes, it's important to work with an experienced estate planning attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure that your plan is comprehensive and up-to-date. Additionally, it's important to review your plan regularly and make updates as necessary to ensure that it reflects your current wishes and circumstances.