Obstacles to Avoid During Estate Planning

Estate planning is a crucial process that allows you to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes after you pass away. However, there are several obstacles that can hinder the effectiveness of estate planning if not avoided.

By being aware of these obstacles and taking proactive steps to avoid them during the estate planning process, you can ensure your wishes are upheld while minimizing potential conflicts or complications for your loved ones in the future.

Lack of Clarity and Communication

One common obstacle in estate planning is the lack of clarity and communication. It is essential to clearly express your intentions and desires regarding the distribution of your assets. Failing to communicate these wishes can lead to confusion about how you want your assets distributed and could potentially cause disputes among family members or beneficiaries.

Estate Plan Not Up to Date

Another obstacle is the failure to regularly update your estate plan. Life events, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, or changes in your financial situation, can significantly impact your estate plan. Failing to review and update your plan accordingly may result in unintended consequences or outdated provisions.

Procrastination

Procrastination is yet another obstacle that individuals often face when it comes to estate planning. You may find yourself putting off creating an estate plan due to various reasons such as discomfort in discussing death, the feeling that you’re too young for estate planning, or the belief that you don’t have enough assets to justify an estate plan.

However, unforeseen events can occur at any age, making it crucial not to postpone this important task. If you don’t have a documented, complete estate plan, you can’t ensure the proper distribution of your assets and the fulfilment of your legacy wishes.

Not Understanding Estate Plan Laws and Regulations

Inadequate knowledge about estate planning laws and regulations can also pose a significant obstacle. Estate planning involves complex legal processes and requirements that vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. You should seek professional guidance from an experienced estate planner or lawyer to help navigate these complexities and ensure compliance with applicable laws.

Taxes Not Being Considered

Lastly, failing to consider potential tax implications can be a significant obstacle in effective estate planning. Estate taxes and inheritance taxes differ depending on local regulations, and without proper knowledge or consideration your beneficiaries may end up dealing with unexpected tax burdens.

Grow Your Wealth with Bloom Investment Counsel, Inc.

Part of planning your estate is to ensure that your investments are well taken care of and will continue to build a legacy for your beneficiaries. For over 38 years Bloom Investment Counsel has specialized in one thing: investing in income-generating investments, specifically dividend-paying stocks.

At Bloom, we are pleased to partner with your other trusted professionals such as estate planners to build a customized portfolio best suited to your needs to protect, preserve and build your wealth. Let’s Talk. Call us at +1-416-861-9941 or email us at info@bloominvestmentcounsel.com

This content is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, tax, legal or accounting advice nor does it constitute an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities referred to. Individual circumstances and current events are critical to sound investment planning; anyone wishing to act on this content should consult with his or her financial partner or advisor.