If you would like assistance in preparing these essential legal documents, NEXsteps is here to help. Visit our shop to select the package that best suits your needs. Additionally, please note that Nancy Boisvert is a Certified Executor Advisor, accredited by the Canadian Institute of Certified Executor Advisors, ensuring she can offer valuable guidance tailored to your unique circumstances.
Create Your Estate Planning Documents
Yes, you can create your own estate planning documents
In many jurisdictions, you do not have to engage a lawyer to create your essential legal documents. Use the link below to start generating these important papers.
Please note that even if you do not have a more complex or unusual situation, you may wish to have a paralegal or a lawyer review your documents to ensure that your intentions are clearly defined to protect you and your family.
*Disclaimer* The link for the online documents contains an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through this link, Agapi may earn a commission. This comes at no additional cost to you. Please note that you can complete these documents on the website and download them for free with a trial subscription.
What Is Estate Planning?
Estate planning is the process of organizing and managing your assets during your lifetime and determining the distribution of those assets after your death. A well-thought-out estate plan can help minimize taxes, ensure your wishes are carried out, and provide for your loved ones.
What Does Estate Planning Include?
Some of the key documents commonly involved in estate planning include:
1. Will:
A will is a legal document that specifies how you want your assets to be distributed after your death. It allows you to name an executor to manage the distribution of your estate and appoint a guardian for minor children, if necessary.
2. Power of Attorney/Enduring Power of Attorney:
A power of attorney grants someone the authority to make legal and financial decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. It can be general or specific, depending on your needs. An Enduring Power of Attorney will cover your needs in the event you become incapacitated or deemed cognitively impaired.
3. Healthcare Directive (Living Will):
A healthcare directive outlines your preferences for medical treatment and appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
4. Trusts:
Trusts are legal arrangements that allow a third party, known as the trustee, to hold and manage assets on behalf of beneficiaries. Living trusts can be used to avoid probate and provide for the management of assets during incapacity.
5. Beneficiary Designations:
Designate beneficiaries for your retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and other assets that allow for beneficiary designation. Keep these designations up to date to ensure your assets go to the intended recipients.
Estate plans should be reviewed and updated regularly, especially after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of children, or changes in financial status.
You may wish to consult with legal and financial professionals when creating an estate plan to ensure it aligns with your specific needs and complies with relevant laws. Laws related to estate planning can vary, so it's advisable to seek guidance based on your jurisdiction.
Legal Disclaimer:
The content provided is for informational purposes only, is not intended to address the specific circumstances of any particular individual or entity and should not be considered as a substitute for professional advice. It is not intended to replace legal, financial, medical, or any other professional advice. Always seek the advice of qualified professionals regarding any questions or concerns you have in the areas covered on this page and on our website, videos and other Materials. We disclaim all liability and responsibility for any actions you take or fail to take based on any of our content, information or Materials.
