Inventory Your Assets
Your estate is composed of all the assets that you own (bank, brokerage and retirement accounts, real estate, life insurance proceeds, business interests, cash and other personal belongings, etc.).
Choose Heirs and Guardians
Legally documenting who your beneficiaries are and what assets they will receive after you pass, and assigning guardians for your minor children and/or dependent adult children
Provide a Way to Transfer Each Asset
Thoughtfully figure out the most efficient way to pass your assets quickly and inexpensively to your beneficiaries without causing unexpected probate or creditor snags.
Things You Can Do Right Now
There’s a variety of actions you can take right now that don’t cost anything and can help smooth the transition of some kinds of assets if the worst should come to pass.
Life Situation
Your stage of life and the shape of your family make differences in how the estate gets designed and executed.