When creating an estate plan, details seem minor but are very important, says a recent article from mondaq, “Four Provisions People Often Forget To Include In Their Estate Plan.” This post briefly runs through some of the most often overlooked elements of estate planning.
Naming an up-to-date alternative beneficiary is an often overlooked element in estate planning. If the will names a beneficiary but cannot take possession of the property, or they are deceased, the asset will pass as though you didn’t have a will at all. In other words, the state will determine who receives the property, which may not follow your wishes. If there’s an alternate beneficiary, the property will go to someone of your choosing. A backup executor is also critical. If your primary executor cannot or does not want to serve, the court may appoint an administrator.
Most families have items with great sentimental value, whether or not they have any financial value. Putting a list in your will makes it very difficult if you want to change your mind over time. It’s best to have a personal property memorandum - an often overlooked element in estate planning. This document provides details about what items you want to give to family and friends. In some states, it is legally binding if the personal property memorandum is referenced in the will and signed and dated by the person making the will. A local estate planning attorney will know the law for your state.
Even if this document is not legally binding, it gives your heirs clear instructions for what you want and may avoid family arguments. Please don’t use it to make any financial bequests or real estate gifts. Those belong in the will.
Much of our lives are now online. However, many people have slowly incorporated digital assets into their estate plans. You’ll want to list all online accounts, including email, financial, social media, gaming, shopping, etc. In addition, your executor may need access to your cell phone, tablet, and desktop computer. The agent named by your Power of Attorney needs to be given authority to handle online accounts with a specific provision in these documents. Ensure the list, including the accounts, account number, username, password, and other access information, is kept safe, and tell your executor where it can be found.
Today’s pet is a family member but is often left unprotected when its owners die or become incapacitated. Pets cannot inherit property, but you can name a caretaker and set aside funds for maintenance. Many states now permit pet owners to have a pet trust, a legally enforceable trust so the trustee may pay the pet’s caregiver for your pet’s needs, including veterinarian care, training, boarding, food, and whatever the pet needs. Creating a document providing details to the caretaker concerning the pet’s needs, health conditions, habits, and quirks is advised. Make sure the person you are naming as a caretaker is able and willing to serve in this capacity, and as always, when naming a person for any role, have at least one backup person named.
Reference: mondaq (March 16, 2023) “Four Provisions People Often Forget To Include In Their Estate Plan”
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