When Should You Start Estate Planning in Texas ?
Anyone 18 years of age or older should have an estate plan in place . Why ? Once you reach the age of majority ( which is 18 in most states ), you assume all financial , medical , and
legal responsibility for yourself .
If something happens to you , whether that ’ s death or losing capacity , where do your assets go ? Who tells the doctor what sort of treatment to give you ? Who pays your bills ?
Of course , your estate plan will change over time and evolve as life progresses . In fact , you should revisit your estate plan every three to five years or upon a significant life event .
But don ’ t wait for something like marriage , kids , a home purchase , or retirement to start estate planning . You are never too old , young , rich , or poor to have an estate plan .
Here are more reasons why you should start estate planning now :
• Give yourself peace of mind ;
• Provide for your family the way you want ;
• Protect your assets ;
• Communicate your wishes and instructions ; and
• Avoid discord among family by creating a plan .
Without an estate plan , Texas intestate succession law dictates what happens to your assets . Essentially , there ’ s a hierarchy of family members who will inherit your property , and this may not be what you want . Take control and start planning your legacy today .
How to Start Estate Planning
Now that you know the importance of estate planning , where to start ? Texas doesn ’ t require you to use a lawyer to write an estate plan . However , speaking with an estate planning attorney is a great place to start .
An experienced lawyer will evaluate your assets , learn about your family , and discuss your goals . From there , they can
craft an estate plan that meets your needs and provides for your loved ones the way you want .
An estate planning lawyer will also ensure that your documents are properly drafted according to Texas law and are enforceable when the time comes .
MEET KYLE ROBBINS
Kyle Robbins is the founder and sole owner of Robbins Estate Law .
He received his J . D . with honors from the University of Texas School of Law and his B . S . in Food Chemistry and Microbiology from Oklahoma State University .
He is a member of the State Bar of Texas , the Estate Planning Council of Central Texas , Austin Young Lawyers Association , and the Travis County Bar Association .
Kyle spends his free time hiking with his family , attending sporting events , and volunteering at the Capital Area Tennis Association and as a coach for the Special Olympics .
Phone Number : ( 512 ) 8511248 For more information , visit https :// www . robbinsestatelaw . com .
Why Start Estate Planning Now ?
Life is uncertain . In a single moment , you could lose the ability to make decisions for yourself . It ’ s imperative to have a plan in place so your family doesn ’ t have to guess or agonize over what ’ s best for you or what you would have wanted .
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