Give Thanks: Plan Your Estate as an Act of Love
Amy Felt
The Spirit of Thanksgiving: Gratitude and Giving Back
Thanksgiving is a time to pause and reflect on what we're truly thankful for—family, health, happiness, and the inherent joy of giving back. We often express our gratitude through shared meals, heartfelt gifts, or kind words. But there's another deeply meaningful way to show appreciation that many overlook: estate planning.Why Estate Planning Is an Act of Love
Many might view estate planning as a legal necessity, but from my perspective as an estate planning lawyer, it transcends that. It's an act of love, one of the most profound ways to demonstrate care and gratitude to those we cherish. A robust, up-to-date estate plan offers peace and comfort to family members, sparing them from undue stress during difficult times. Yet, only 24% of U.S. adults have a will as of 2025, with a mere 24% of adults aged 18–34 having created one. This Thanksgiving, consider the meaningful impact that estate planning can have on your loved ones.Practical Steps to Begin Estate Planning
If you haven't started or revisited your estate plan recently, now is a great time to take action. Here are a few practical tips to help you embark on or refresh your estate planning journey:- Take stock of your current documents: Review what you already have in place and identify any updates or changes needed.
- Consider decision-makers: Think about who you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you're unable to do so.
- Communicate your intentions: Clearly discuss your wishes with family members to avoid misunderstandings in the future.