Why Everyone Needs An Estate Plan

Let’s face it: nobody loves talking about estate planning. It doesn’t exactly scream excitement, but it does provide crucial peace of mind and security for your future and your family.

Most people think estate planning is something reserved for the wealthy, but that’s a dangerous myth. Attorneys such as our friends at The J M Dickerson Law Firm know the truth — estate planning is for everyone.

In this article, we’ll explore:

What estate planning really is
Why it’s essential for people of all income levels
What happens if you don’t have one
What basic documents you need
How to get started today

Estate Planning Defined

At its core, estate planning is a fancy term for one very simple thing: taking control of your future.

It’s about making decisions—your decisions—about who gets your stuff, who handles things if you’re incapacitated, who cares for your children, and how your legacy lives on.

Estate planning is not about dying. It’s about living well and leaving well.

Here’s what it can do:

Distribute your assets to the people or causes you choose
Appoint someone to make healthcare or financial decisions if you can’t
Protect minor children by naming guardians
Reduce stress and confusion for your family
Avoid unnecessary legal fees, taxes, and court battles

Myth-Busting: “But I Don’t Have Enough Money To Need An Estate Plan!”

Many people think that their assets do not represent enough of a need to necessitate an estate plan. Here’s the reality: if you own anything—a car, a checking account, a retirement plan, a beloved dog, or even a well-loved book collection—you have an estate.

And if you don’t make a plan for it, your state will. The government’s default plan is not great. It doesn’t know your family dynamics, your values, or your goals. Leaving the planning up to the state often leads to conflict and difficulties for your friends and family.

The High Cost Of No Plan At All

Dying without a will is called dying intestate, which often equates to leaving behind a mess.

Here’s what could happen:

Your assets are tied up in court for months (or years).
Your family argues over what you “would have wanted.”
A judge appoints a guardian for your children or pets—possibly not who you’d pick.
Your partner may receive nothing if you aren’t legally married.
Everything becomes public record.

That likely does not sound like the legacy that you want to leave behind. Luckily, an estate planning lawyer can help you get your estate in order.

Estate Planning For Every Stage Of Life

You don’t need a million-dollar estate to start planning. Here’s how it looks in different life stages:

In Your 20s–30s:

Name someone to make medical decisions if you can’t
Draft a financial power of attorney
Create a will

In Your 30s–40s:

Plan for guardianship if you have kids
Start using beneficiary designations strategically
Consider a trust if you’re building wealth or buying property

In Your 50s–60s:

Review and possibly update your documents
Think about long-term care planning
Talk to your family about your legacy values

In Retirement:

Make gifting part of your strategy
Explore charitable giving through your plan
Ensure everything is in one place for your loved ones

The Essential Estate Planning Documents

Every adult should have, at minimum:

A Will – A will outlines who gets what and who’s in charge of making it happen.
Power of Attorney (Financial) – A power of attorney allows someone to act on your behalf financially if you can’t.
Healthcare Power of Attorney – A healthcare power of attorney appoints someone to make medical decisions.
Living Will / Advance Directive – An advance directive tells doctors your end-of-life medical preferences.
HIPAA Authorization – HIPAA authorization allows loved ones access to medical information.

These documents can be customized to fit your values, goals, and relationships.

It’s Not About The Money—It’s About The People

Here’s what most people get wrong: estate planning is not about things. It’s about people. You’re not protecting your house—you’re protecting the people who live in it. You’re not assigning your 401(k)—you’re giving your spouse financial security. You’re not naming a guardian “just in case”—you’re ensuring your kids are raised with love and stability.

Ready to take action? Here’s a simple checklist for creating a comprehensive estate plan:

Make a list of all your assets
Write down your top 2–3 goals for your plan
Identify people you trust to act on your behalf
Meet with an attorney
Communicate your wishes to your family

Leave A Legacy, Not A Legal Mess

Estate planning isn’t just for “later.” It’s for now. You don’t have to be rich. You don’t need to own a yacht or have a six-figure stock portfolio. All you need is a life worth protecting—and a desire to take care of the people you love. Contact an attorney today to discuss your estate planning needs.