Estate planning involves a lot more than just making a will. One of the main purposes of an estate plan is to ensure that all your final wishes are carried out in the most tax-efficient manner possible, thereby maximizing the value of your estate for your beneficiaries.

An estate plan is the single most effective way to preserve your wealth and transfer your assets efficiently and tax-effectively in accordance with your wishes. We describe below four reasons why you shouldn’t ignore estate planning.

In today’s digital age, estate planning goes beyond deciding what will happen to your physical possessions: it extends to your digital assets as well. As you increasingly rely on technology for various aspects of your life, it is crucial to consider what will happen to your digital assets after you pass away. Without proper estate planning for your digital assets, they can be lost or inaccessible to your loved ones who may need access or want to preserve them in your memory.

Many people think of their Will as the core of their estate plan, but Wills can be contested and may be subject to a lengthy probate process. Using a trust can circumvent many wealth transfer issues and help relieve much stress for you and your heirs.

A trust can add a layer of protection for your family, loved ones, and legacy once you’re gone.

Many people falsely believe that an estate plan simply means drafting a will. But a will is just one component of an estate plan.

An estate plan is much more comprehensive and may necessarily include many more documents than a will.

Writing a Will is an important part of planning for your future and ensuring that your wishes are taken care of. It is hard to believe that over 50% of Canadians, many of whom are past retirement age, do not have a Will. It’s important to think about when you should write and update your Will, as it can be a complex process that requires careful consideration.