Don’t Fall for Estate Planning Myths

MythThere are many myths floating around about wills, trusts and estate planning. Those myths can easily confuse people who haven’t taken the time to bust them, before getting on to the real work … taking care of the family, according to the Cleveland Jewish News in “Estate planning myths common, but debunkable.”

One common myth is that a trust is completely creditor protected. While there are some trusts that achieve this goal, there are many that don’t.

Another myth is that once an estate plan is completed, there’s no need to revisit or make changes.

Perhaps the biggest myth around estate plans, is that they are only needed by wealthy people. Actually, everyone needs a will.

People chat with their friends and neighbors and pick up snippets of information, which is usually incorrect. As with any kind of story, once a piece of information has moved through a few different people, it becomes confusing, even if it started out accurate.

Unless it comes from an estate planning attorney, don’t get any legal advice at a neighborhood or family gathering. 

If you don’t set up guardianship for your minor children, then the court will appoint a guardian. It’s entirely possible that it may be a person you would never have wanted to raise your children. If a separate financial trustee is not named, there won’t be any checks and balances on how the money left for your children is spent.

If you don’t have an estate plan in place, and especially if your family includes minor children, make an appointment to speak with an estate planning attorney who can advise you on an estate plan that fits your unique circumstances.

Reference: Cleveland Jewish News (Sep. 20, 2018) “Estate planning myths common, but debunkable”

Subscribe to our newsletter

Categories

Now is the time.

Protect yourself and those you love.

No matter where you are in life’s journey, we are here.

Whether you need to create an estate plan, protect minor children, need help with long-term care, or you own a business, our caring team can help.

We have 3 convenient locations throughout Mid-Michigan and are ready to serve you.

Take your first step by contacting us today.

Skip to content