Most financial advisers agree that estate planning should begin at a young age. The needs of younger individuals and couples, though, are not necessarily the same as that of an older couple. What, then, should a person in his or her twenties concentrate on when putting together an estate plan?
According to an article in usnews.com, estate planning is all about taking care of the people you love and helping simplify matters for survivors. The first couple of documents a young adult should have are a durable power of attorney and a healthcare proxy. These documents accomplish a few things. The healthcare proxy designates a person to make healthcare decisions if you are incapacitated. The durable power of attorney allows someone to take financial actions in the case of your absence. A will is also a critical document. This allows you to direct your assets to those you want to receive them. If your assets go to probate court, a close friend or a favorite charity would likely receive nothing, which might not be your wish. Close attention to beneficiary documents is also important for young workers.
A Guide to Estate Planning by Age at merchantsbank.com recommends if you are in your thirties to consider a trust. This document sets up a trustee at your choosing who holds authority to direct your financial affairs. A trust could cover several different types of assets such as investment accounts and real estate holdings. Different types of trusts exist, including living trusts, irrevocable trusts and revocable trusts. You should choose the trust that works best for your situation.