Many may believe that a good estate plan just means having a will. However, to ensure that your assets are transferred seamlessly transferred to your loved ones, charities, or nonprofit organizations. A will is just one part of an estate plan. A simple checklist to follow about what makes up a comprehensive estate plan includes:

1. Will/Trust
2. Power of Attorney
3. Beneficiary
4. Letter of Intent
5. Healthcare Power of Attorney
6. Guardianship

Going through life, you’ve likely accumulated some assets. Having a plan for what happens when you pass will ensure that you are in control of your wealth. The first step to creating your estate plan is creating an inventory of what you own. This can include money, valuables, family heirlooms, cars, real estate, businesses, and any other assets. Next, contact a trusted attorney or financial planner to help 

A trusted attorney or financial planner can help you take the right steps to getting your estate plan legitimized. If you don’t know who to go to, contact Southwest Health Foundation Director, Tammie Richter, at foundation@southwesthealth.org to see what options are available to you.