Without a plan, a courtroom and state law decide who gets what — not you, not your family. And this isn't just for wealthy families. Most Americans have no will, no trust, and no healthcare directive on file anywhere.
Estate planning isn't about how much you have — it's about making sure your decisions, not a stranger's, control what happens.
A will is the document that names guardians — without one, that decision goes to a judge, not to you.
Most people know this is unfinished business — this is the page for actually finishing it.
Life events — marriage, divorce, a new child, a death in the family — are exactly when plans need a real review.
Directs how assets are distributed and names guardians for minor children.
Can avoid probate entirely and keep your estate private — and can manage assets during your lifetime too.
Names who makes financial decisions on your behalf if you're unable to.
Names who makes medical decisions on your behalf if you're unable to.
This is the "E" in REPTEC — Retirement, Education, Protection, Taxes, Estate Planning, and Cash Flow. How your accounts are titled, and how retirement accounts pass by beneficiary designation rather than your will, both connect directly to this decision.
These override even a well-written will — retirement accounts and life insurance pass by designation, not by what your will says.
Online templates that don't correctly meet the specific requirements of your state can fail exactly when they're needed most.
Marriage, divorce, a new child, or a death in the family are all moments a plan needs a real review — not a "someday."
Your estate typically goes through probate, and state intestacy law determines who inherits using a fixed formula — which may not match what you'd actually want, and can take months to years.
A will only takes effect after death and typically goes through public probate. A living trust can avoid probate entirely, stays private, and can manage assets during your lifetime too.
Typically a will, often a living trust, a financial power of attorney, and a healthcare directive — covering both decision-making and asset distribution.
Yes — accounts with named beneficiaries pass directly to that person regardless of what the will states, which is why outdated designations are such a common problem.
After major life events — marriage, divorce, a new child, a significant change in assets, or the death of a named executor or beneficiary.
Tell us a little about your situation. Lee reviews every submission personally and follows up within one business day.