What Is the First Step in My Indiana Estate Plan?

Most adults realize that an estate plan is essential, yet a surprising number never take the steps necessary to create one. People often put off the estate planning process because they are uncertain how to begin or they feel overwhelmed by the decisions involved. Understanding the purpose of an estate plan and identifying a clear starting point can make the process much less intimidating. With that in mind, the Indianapolis attorneys at Frank & Kraft offer guidance on the first step in creating your Indiana estate plan.

Why Having an Estate Plan Matters

The primary reason for creating an estate plan is to maintain control over what happens to your property, finances, and personal matters if you become incapacitated or after you pass away. Without a plan, Indiana’s intestate succession laws will dictate how your estate is distributed, which may not align with your wishes, if you pass away. If you become incapacitated, a court may have to decide who make personal and financial decisions for you. Even a simple plan ensures that your assets go to the people or causes you choose and someone of your choosing makes decisions for you, rather than leaving those decisions to the state.

Beyond distributing assets, a comprehensive plan offers other important benefits. You can designate someone to make medical and financial decisions if you cannot do so yourself, plan for potential long-term care expenses, and minimize taxes that may affect your estate. An estate plan can also provide for a loved one with special needs, ensure that a family pet is cared for, and safeguard wealth for future generations. For parents of young children, it can designate a guardian and manage an inheritance in a way that protects the child’s future. In short, estate planning is about far more than dividing property. When properly drafted, an estate plan creates security, clarity, and peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Identifying Your Personal Goals

Because each person’s circumstances are unique, there is no universal estate plan that fits everyone. The first step for everyone, however, involves thinking about what matters most to you. Start by considering the people who depend on you financially or emotionally. For parents, ensuring that children receive their inheritance in a responsible and structured way may be the top priority. For those nearing retirement, preparing for the high cost of nursing home or assisted living care may take center stage.

You should also reflect on your personal values and long-term intentions. Do you wish to make charitable gifts? Do you want to keep certain assets, such as a family home or business, in the family for generations? Are there specific individuals you want to exclude from inheriting? Answering these questions will help you and your attorney design a plan that reflects your unique priorities.

The Role of a Last Will and Testament

For most people, a Last Will and Testament is the first legal document they create when establishing an estate plan. A Will allows you to name beneficiaries, select a personal representative to manage your estate, and appoint guardians for minor children. While it is an important foundation, it is rarely enough on its own to address all estate planning needs. For example, assets that pass outside of probate, such as life insurance proceeds, jointly owned property, or trust assets, will not be controlled by your Will. Moreover, certain goals, such as protecting assets from creditors or ensuring that an inheritance is managed responsibly for a young or inexperienced heir, may require additional tools, such as a trust agreement. This is why defining your objectives before drafting a Will can lead to a more effective and complete plan.

Getting Started with Your Indiana Estate Plan

Consulting with an Indiana estate planning attorney should be your first step toward your estate planning journey. While online templates and “do-it-yourself” kits may seem appealing, they often fail to comply with state-specific legal requirements and rarely address complex or specialized goals. What might appear to be a cost-saving measure can ultimately create costly problems for your heirs, potentially leading to disputes and prolonged court proceedings. An experienced attorney can help you select the right combination of documents that work together to protect you during your lifetime and carry out your wishes after death. They can also ensure that your plan complies with Indiana law and adapts to changing circumstances over time.

Can We Help You Take the First Step Toward Creating Your Indiana Estate Plan?

For more information, please join us for an upcoming FREE seminar. If you would like assistance to ensure that your estate planning documents are safe in Indiana, contact an experienced Indianapolis estate planning attorney at Frank & Kraft by calling (317) 684-1100 to schedule an appointment.

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