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Something to make others thank God: Six steps to a simple estate plan
By Stephen Bloom | December 16, 2009
What you are doing is much more than a service that supplies God’s people with what they need. It is something that will make many others thank God. - 2 Corinthians 9:12 (CEV)
For most people, sound and sensible estate planning is simple:
1. Make a will (who gets what and who speaks for you when you’re gone)
2. Make a durable power of attorney (who speaks for you if you can’t speak for yourself during life)
3. Consider a life decision document (living will, will to live, or nothing at all - see my Crosswalk.com article Should You Have a Living Will? A Christian Lawyer’s Perspective)
4. Double-check your beneficiaries and co-owners (these trump anything your will says)
5. Consult a qualified lawyer (yes, you can save a little money on legal fees now by making your own documents, but often this means your heirs will end up spending more money on lawyers later)
6. Review your plan at least every few years (more often if you’ve had major life changes)
Question: Are you (or your organization) thankful for someone’s good stewardship?
Topics: estate planning |
January 22nd, 2010 at 2:47 am
I love your blog! Having these plans can avoid problems and conflicts later on for your beneficiaries. Sometimes, people tend to have conflicts because they are confused about their rights. Being planned saves time and maintains peace.