Yes! Everyone needs a will, trust, or both to ensure your legacy is passed on in the way you intend, to provide for children, spouse, and family members, and in the case of trusts, to avoid probate. Wills and trusts are not just for the wealthy: A well-drafted plan ensures that what you do have is not wasted in probate court, establishes your intentions for sentimental items and family heirlooms, and can even state your wishes for the care of pets.
Almost everyone has a digital presence now: Estate planning can also help ensure your online photos, records, and accounts do not disappear. If you were in a Medicaid-funded nursing home at the end of your life, a trust may also prevent or limit Medicaid-recovery states from emptying remaining bank accounts or forcing the sale of the family home to pay back nursing home costs. If you have a retirement account or IRA, a trust can also ensure that your beneficiaries are not hit with a huge tax burden when the funds are distributed.
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