Whether it is because of or in spite of COVID-19, we are seeing an uptick in both new and existing clients wanting to create or update their estate planning. Some, much like being stuck home for a hurricane (but much longer), are looking to take care of something that can be taken care of while still self-isolating. Others, whether health care and front-line workers, or the rest of us who realize nothing is certain, have decided that it is time to take care of what they have been putting off.

Estate planning involves trying to efficiently address the “who gets what” when you die and how they receive it. Perhaps more critically, it also addresses the handling of your health care and financial affairs if you are incapacitated and not able to make decisions for yourself. This includes documents allowing access to your financial accounts and payment of your bills, as well as allowing access to medical records and making of health care decisions if you are unable to handle things. In some cases, it addresses federal and state (and even international) tax issues, guardianship of minor children, probate, Medicaid/nursing home planning, and even special needs planning for family members. For business owners, planning helps ensure continuity in the case of incapacity or death.

Even clients who had their estate planning prepared several years ago should have an estate planning “checkup”. Circumstances and the law change over time and a checkup is an opportunity to review your situation to see that it is consistent with current law and your current situation.

Please let us know if you would like to schedule an appointment, which can be done by telephone or video conference. We also have a secure client portal for uploading and viewing documents. Even signings can be done with proper social distancing protocols with our drive-through, parking lot document signings.