What People Ask About Estate Planning
Planning for the future can bring up a lot of questions, especially when it comes to what happens to your property and personal matters after you’re gone. Fortunately, your Des Moines, IA estate planning lawyer can make sure your family is cared for, your wishes are respected, and your plans are legally solid. At Law Group of Iowa, we have over 15 years of experience helping our clients with estate planning. Read on for answers to common questions our clients ask, and get in touch with us today to get started.
What Should I Include In My Estate Plan?
An estate plan is more than just a will. Most people include several items to cover all their bases. At the core is the will itself, which names who gets your property and who will carry out your wishes. Many people also choose to add a power of attorney for financial matters, a healthcare directive, and possibly one or more trusts.
When Should I Start Estate Planning?
You don’t need to wait until you’re older or have a large amount of wealth. Many people start planning after major life changes—like marriage, having kids, buying a house, or opening a business. The truth is, any adult can benefit from having a basic plan in place. Even if your situation is simple, having your wishes written down makes things easier for your loved ones.
What Happens If I Die Without A Will?
A will gives you control over who gets what and who manages the process. Without one, your family may face delays, confusion, or even conflict.If you pass away without a valid will, your property is distributed based on state law.
Do I Need A Trust If I Already Have A Will?
Not everyone needs a trust, but in some cases it makes sense. Trusts can be helpful if you want to avoid probate, manage assets for young children, or control how and when money is distributed. A trust can also help if you own property in more than one state or want to keep certain matters private. Wills are public once they go to court, but trusts stay between the people involved.
How Often Should I Update My Estate Plan?
It’s a good idea to review your estate plan every few years or after any major life change. That might include getting married or divorced, having children or grandchildren, or gaining or losing significant property. Even if your situation hasn’t changed much, state laws sometimes do. A quick review can help keep your documents in line with your current wishes and legal requirements. We encourage our clients to think of estate planning as an ongoing process, not just a one-time task.
Contact Us Today
Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming, and you don’t have to go through it alone. At Law Group of Iowa, we’re ready to use our experience with probate, estate planning, wills, and trusts to help you next. If you have questions or need help getting started, talk with an estate planning lawyer from our team today.
