The Best Time to Put in Place Your Estate Plan? Right Now.

Most people don’t think about estate planning until life forces their hand—an unexpected illness, the loss of a loved one, or a major life change. It’s easy to put off. After all, thinking about these issues is not always comfortable. But here’s the truth: the best time to put your estate plan in place is now. 

I have been reminded of this truth in recent months by a number of clients and their families coming to me in crisis. Sometimes we have been able to get that plan in place in time to make sure a clients’ wishes are followed – but other times the window for completing a plan while the potential client has adequate capacity to put a plan in place has sadly been missed.

With these recent experiences weighing on my mind, as well as the approach of National Estate Planning Awareness Week later this month, I thought it worthwhile to revisit why having a plan in place is important for everyone.

Why Estate Planning Matters

Estate planning is not just for the wealthy, elderly, or terminally ill. It’s for everyone. If you have assets, family, children, or simply care about what happens to your affairs when you’re no longer here (or if you become incapacitated), then an estate plan is essential.

Without one, your estate can be tied up in lengthy legal processes. The laws of intestacy will decide who gets what from your estate and it may not be the kind of distribution you want. Further, a court may end up deciding who takes care of your children, or who makes your medical decisions if you're unable to do so. And those decisions might not align with your wishes.

What Happens When You Wait?

Here are some of the most common consequences of delaying estate planning:

• Your loved ones face uncertainty and stress.

  Without a plan in place, your family is left to guess at your intentions—often during an emotionally charged time.

  
  

• You lose control over key decisions.

  If you become incapacitated without a healthcare power of attorney or financial power of attorney, a court will decide who makes medical and financial decisions for you.

  
  

• Higher costs and taxes.

  An estate without a plan in place often leads to unnecessary legal fees, taxes, and administrative headaches that could have been avoided with a proper plan.

  
  

The Benefits of Starting Now

1. Peace of mind.

   Knowing that your wishes are documented and enforceable brings comfort—not only to you but to your loved ones.

   
   

2. Flexibility.

   Estate plans can be revised as your life changes through life events such as marriage, divorce, children, new assets, or career changes. Starting now gives you a solid foundation you can build on.

   
   

3. Protection during your lifetime.

   A comprehensive estate plan includes more than a will. Powers of attorney and healthcare directives ensure your voice is heard even if you can't speak for yourself. It also makes sure your affairs are in order and taken care of even if you don’t have the capacity to care for them yourself.

   
   

4. Financial clarity.

   Creating an estate plan often helps you get a clearer picture of your finances and long-term goals, ensuring your loved ones are taken care of in the manner you wish.

   
   

It’s Easier Than You Think

Estate planning sounds intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. If you work with Ozdeger Law to set up your plan, all you need to do to get started is set up a free 15-minute Zoom consultation.

There’s no perfect age, stage, or moment to start your estate plan. Life is unpredictable, and putting off these decisions only creates more risk. Whether you're 25 or 65, single or married, a parent or not—now is the time to take control of your legacy.

An estate plan isn't just about what happens when you're gone. It's also about making sure you're cared for while you're here, and making life easier for the people you love when you're not.

So, take the first step now. Schedule that consultation here. Your future self—and your family—will thank you.