Making an estate plan is one of the most meaningful ways to show your love and care for your family — yet many Americans continue to put it off.
A 2025 survey found that only about one in three adults have an estate plan — continuing a downward trend seen in recent years. National Estate Planning Awareness Week is observed during the third full week of October each year, and now is the perfect time to reflect on your own plans and ensure your wishes are clearly documented and protected.
Estate Planning Is for Everyone
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or those nearing retirement — it’s for everyone. Whether you’re starting a career, raising a family, or enjoying your golden years, having an estate plan ensures that the people you trust can make important decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so.
A well-crafted plan does more than distribute your assets — it provides clarity, protection, and peace of mind. It can help you:
- Protect your heirs from the costs and delays of probate
- Safeguard your loved ones’ inheritances from divorce, lawsuits, or creditors
- Preserve assets for your children if your surviving spouse remarries
- Provide for children or grandchildren with special needs
- Plan for long-term care before it’s needed
- Protect your estate from the Medi-Cal Recovery Lien in the event of nursing home care
How to Get Started
If you don’t yet have a plan, there’s no better time than now to create one. Start by taking inventory of your assets — including bank accounts, investments, retirement funds, life insurance, and personal belongings. Decide who you want to inherit these assets and who you trust to make financial and health care decisions for you if you’re unable to do so. For those with minor children, identifying guardians is also an important step.
Once you’ve outlined your wishes, meet with an experienced estate planning attorney who can guide you in developing a plan tailored to your needs and goals. You might also consider bringing a trusted loved one or advisor to your meeting to help ensure everyone understands your intentions.
While these conversations can sometimes feel emotional, they’re deeply important. Approaching estate planning with openness and compassion helps your loved ones feel informed and supported — and gives them confidence in the future.
A Helpful Resource in Making an Estate Plan
In his book, Yes, You Need an Estate Plan!, Attorney Justin M. Kennedy explains why every adult over the age of 18 should have some form of estate planning in place. The book breaks down the essentials in clear, practical terms and serves as a valuable guide for you or your loved ones as you begin the process. You can order it at attorneyoffice.com/book. If you attend one of our free Living Trust Seminars, you’ll also receive a complimentary copy of the book.
If You Already Have a Plan — Review It
Even if you already have an estate plan, National Estate Planning Awareness Week is an excellent reminder to review and update it. Make sure your documents still reflect your current wishes, verify that your assets are properly titled in the name of your living trust, and confirm that all beneficiary designations are accurate.
It’s also wise to maintain a contact list of your key advisors, friends, and family members with your estate documents, along with an updated inventory of your accounts and assets.
Making An Estate Plan: Give the Gift of Peace of Mind
A thoughtful estate plan is an essential part of your overall financial wellness — and one of the most loving gifts you can give your family. By documenting your wishes and empowering those you trust, you provide your loved ones with the clarity and confidence they’ll need when it matters most.
If you or someone you care about would like to learn more, we invite you to attend one of our free upcoming estate planning seminars. Details are available by visiting attorneyoffice.com/seminars.
There’s truly no time like the present to protect your future — and show your love through thoughtful planning.
