Everyone Needs an Estate Plan—Even If You Are Single with No Dependents

It is a protective measure that ensures assets are distributed according to one's wishes and helps minimize legal disputes among family members. Singles must understand how an estate plan helps avoid probate, a lengthy and costly process, and why it may be suitable for their specific situation.

Estate planning essentials

Will— The most fundamental element of an estate plan is a will. This legal document outlines who will inherit one's assets, including stocks, art, investments, and personal belongings, upon death. Without a will, one's assets are distributed according to state laws, which may not align with personal preferences. Even individuals without children should draft a will so that their assets are transferred according to their wishes.

Other essential documents in an estate plan, in addition to a will, include:

Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA)— This legal document grants a trusted individual the authority to manage one's financial affairs in the event of incapacity.

Health Care Proxy—Also known as a Health Care Power of Attorney, this document appoints someone to make medical decisions on behalf of the individual in the event they become unable to do so.

Living Will— A living will outlines one's preferences for end-of-life care. It provides guidance to healthcare proxies and medical professionals regarding care and wishes related to life-prolonging treatments.

Revocable Living Trust— A revocable living trust transfers assets into a trust during one's lifetime. Upon death, these assets transfer to the designated beneficiaries without going through the probate process.

Letter of Intent— A letter of intent communicates what an individual would like to happen after their death or incapacitation. It can detail funeral arrangements or provide information for the person managing their affairs.

Important documents—An organized list of necessary documents (such as birth certificates, deeds, and insurance policies) and their locations can significantly assist loved ones in managing an individual's affairs after their death.

Limited Liability Company (LLC)—An LLC can also be integral to an estate plan, primarily if the individual owns a business or substantial real estate. An LLC helps protect against personal liability for business debts and claims and offers additional tax advantages.

Inclusion of assets

An estate plan should encompass all assets that an individual owns. These assets can range from financial assets, such as stocks and real estate, to tangible assets, including art, cars, and other personal belongings.

It's also vital to include jointly owned assets in an estate plan. Consult a financial professional and an attorney for guidance on how these assets should be titled and other related matters.

Stocks and investments—An estate plan should clearly detail who will inherit securities, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, retirement accounts, and other equities.

Art and collectibles— Include valuable art, collectibles, and valuables in the estate plan.

Cars and other tangibles— Tangible assets such as cars, real estate, and other personal property should be in the will to avoid potential disputes after one's death.

In conclusion, whether you're single without children or not, it's essential to have an estate plan so that your assets transfer to those you wish. Enlisting the assistance of financial, legal, and tax professionals in estate planning can make the asset transfer process smooth and stress-free for family members and others you care about.