Let’s be honest – estate planning probably isn’t at the top of your New Year’s resolution list. As an Andover will lawyer, I’ve heard every reason for postponing this important task: “I’m too young,” “I don’t have enough assets,” or the classic “I’ll get to it later.” But here’s the truth: later isn’t guaranteed, and tomorrow’s peace of mind starts with today’s decisions.
Why We Procrastinate
We understand that facing your own mortality isn’t exactly enjoyable. It’s natural to push it aside for another day, another month, another year. Plus, there’s always something more urgent demanding your attention – work deadlines, family obligations, or that home repair you’ve been meaning to tackle.
But consider this: estate planning isn’t really about you – it’s about the people you love most. It’s about ensuring your children don’t face unnecessary hurdles during an already emotional time. It’s about protecting your spouse from lengthy court proceedings. It’s about giving your loved ones the gift of clarity when they need it most.
The Cost of Waiting
Procrastination in estate planning can have real consequences:
- Families left struggling with court processes during their time of grief
- Assets potentially going to unintended recipients
- Loved ones unable to access accounts or make medical decisions
- Children’s guardianship left to court decisions rather than your wishes
Small Steps, Big Impact
You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Start with these manageable steps:
- Schedule a consultation (yes, just making the appointment counts!)
- Gather basic information about your assets
- Make a list of who you’d trust to handle your affairs
- Think about who should receive what (and why)
Remember, perfect is the enemy of done. Your estate plan doesn’t need to be flawless – it just needs to exist. And like any good plan, it can be updated as your life changes.
Don’t let another year slip by without protecting your family’s future. Our compassionate team understands the challenges of getting started, and we’re here to make the process as smooth as possible. Contact us at 978-409-1928 to schedule a consultation. Let’s make this the year you finally check “estate planning” off your to-do list – your family will thank you for it.