Most people know it’s important to plan their estate. But it isn’t something that most of us look forward to. And few of us have the expertise to deal with the all legal nuances and complex issues involved in the actual planning process. In the long run though, an estate plan can help you protect the ones that matter most.

Protect Their Future

Not having an estate plan could mean the difference between you having the final say on how your estate should be administered versus your estate being at the mercy of provincial succession laws. Without an estate plan, the things you’ve worked so hard to earn, and the money that took years to save, may not end up in the hands of the people or causes you care about. Your family may not have enough to pay debts and expenses or they may be subject to a long drawn out settlement. Or worse, your children’s future may be compromised.

Who Needs an Estate Plan?

Everyone should see estate planning as a top priority, no matter what stage of life they’re in. Obviously, as you get older it’s even more important. But estate planning is important for families with young kids and even single adults too. Because it ensures you leave your assets to people and charities you care about with the least amount of legal fees and taxes deducted.

Estate planning is especially important if you’re part of a blended family where one or both partners have children from a previous relationship and you face the complexity of splitting your assets among your spouse, your biological children and/or your partner’s children. And if you’re a parent of a disabled child, an estate plan can ensure the special care they need is there for the long-term.

Get Good Advice

Your financial advisor will listen, assess your individual needs and put together a plan to help ensure your loved ones continue to enjoy the life they deserve. They can work together with you to develop a solid estate plan that is unique to your needs.

Other topics to explore:

 Fine tuning your insurance

 When to choose a TFSA vs. RRSP

 Tips on how to handle an inheritance

 Did you know there's free money to help save for your child's future?