Why People Delay Estate Planning
While estate planning might not be at the top of your to-do list, it’s essential to tackle it while you’re healthy and able to make clear decisions.
As you go about your busy schedule, estate planning may not be your top priority. In the back of your mind, you know it is important to start the conversation. Maybe you think you have plenty of time for that later or you aren’t quite sure where you want to be financially, but you continue to put off seeking the advice of an attorney who is experienced in estate planning.
The best time for estate planning is when you are healthy and can make decisions based on facts, not your emotions or time constraints. For those of you who have had to deal with a parent or loved one’s estate that resulted in probate court, you certainly know the stress that it puts on the family.
Whether you have had a lifetime to accumulate your assets and want to pass them on to your family, or you feel you are not quite where you want to be financially, your assets still need to be protected.
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For many people, the biggest barrier to estate planning is not the paperwork — it’s the emotional weight of the subject. Thinking about illness, incapacity, or death can feel uncomfortable, even frightening. As a result, many choose avoidance as a coping mechanism, pushing the task aside rather than confronting those difficult emotions. While understandable, this habit often delays the sense of relief and security that comes from knowing your wishes are documented and your loved ones are protected.
Even those who recognize the importance of estate planning can feel overwhelmed by the idea of beginning the process. Questions about which documents to prepare such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives can make the task seem bigger than it really is. This uncertainty often leads to procrastination. In reality, getting started is far easier with guidance. Working with an estate planning attorney can simplify the process, clarify your options, and ensure your plan fits your unique needs.
A common myth is that estate planning is only necessary for individuals with significant wealth. This misconception leaves many families vulnerable. An “estate” includes everything you own: your home, vehicle, personal belongings, bank accounts, retirement funds, and digital assets. Regardless of asset size, having a plan ensures your wishes are honored and reduces the burden on loved ones during an already stressful time.
Putting off estate planning can create challenges that may be difficult for your family to navigate later. Without clear instructions, loved ones may face uncertainty, disagreements, or unnecessary legal and financial hurdles. Probate may become more complicated, and decisions you would have made yourself may be left to the courts. Taking action now provides clarity, protects your family’s wellbeing, and ensures your legacy is handled according to your wishes.
Discussing finances and family dynamics is very personal and can be intimidating. Developing trust with an estate planning attorney will provide you with the peace of mind that your affairs are in order. Your attorney will provide you the information and alternatives you need so you can make the best decisions for you or your family.
Sometimes life happens and you are faced with a family crisis. For example, a loved one needs long-term care but does not have an estate plan. It is not too late to seek help. An attorney experienced in elder law can research the alternatives and assist you so you are able to make the best decisions.
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By providing remote appointments, we can assist clients throughout Missouri from our headquarters located in Springfield. Our attorneys routinely help families in Columbia, Kansas City, and St. Louis, as well as communities such as Nixa, Ozark, Branson, Rogersville, Republic, Bolivar, and other small towns across the state.
If you are postponing estate planning because you fear attorney costs, you may want to consider starting with the basics rather than a comprehensive estate package. Your personal estate package can be developed within your timeline. It is important to get started!
Our philosophy at Assertion Law Firm LLC and 417 Business & Elder Law is to inspire, educate, and motivate you to control your future by empowering you to make the best decisions for your family so that you have peace of mind. We discuss your options so you can choose the right path for you.
You’ll find the investment to be reasonable in proportion to the experience and guidance that a well-rounded elder law attorney can give.
Please call our office at (888) 887-4170 if you have any questions about this article.
While estate planning might not be at the top of your to-do list, it’s essential to tackle it while you’re healthy and able to make clear decisions.
