What assets should be included in my estate plan?

As a lawyer, I can provide some guidance on what assets should be included in your estate plan. An estate plan is a legal document that outlines the distribution of assets and the management of healthcare and financial affairs in the event of incapacity. The following assets should be included in your estate plan:

1. Real Property: Your estate plan should include any real property that you own, such as a home, vacation property or rental property. You should include a list of all real property along with any relevant details such as deeds, titles, and leases.
2. Personal Property: You should also include any personal property that you own, such as jewelry, furniture, vehicles, and collectibles. If you have a valuable collection, you may want to consider how it will be divided among beneficiaries.
3. Bank Accounts: Your estate plan should include a list of all bank accounts and details about how they should be distributed. You may want to consider whether you want to give specific amounts of money to certain beneficiaries or if you want to divide them equally.
4. Retirement Accounts: Retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and pension plans, should also be included in your estate plan. These assets can be divided among beneficiaries or left to a trust to manage.
5. Life Insurance Policies: If you have a life insurance policy, you should include it in your estate plan along with details about the beneficiaries. You may want to consider setting up a trust to receive the proceeds of the policy.
6. Business Interests: If you own a business, you should include it in your estate plan with details about how it will be managed or sold after your death.
7. Digital Assets: Digital assets such as online banking, social media accounts, and cloud storage should also be included in your estate plan along with instructions on how to access them or delete them.

It's important to note that some assets may have certain limitations or exceptions. For example, some retirement accounts may have required minimum distributions or tax implications. Additionally, some assets, such as jointly held or community property, may have specific rules for distribution.

To ensure that your estate plan accurately reflects your wishes, it's important to consult with an experienced estate planning attorney. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances and help you create a plan that protects your assets and your family's financial future.