The Top Three Reasons People Put Off Estate Planning


You probably understand how critical estate planning is for your family’s future, but it’s nonetheless one of those things that many people find many reasons to put off—sometimes, indefinitely. Putting in the time and effort to effectively plan your estate, however, can go a long way towards protecting your family’s future finances and can allow you the peace of mind that comes with being well prepared. An experienced Estate Planning attorney in the St. Louis area can help you confidently accomplish this important task.

What’s Your Reason for Delaying?

People have a lot of reasons for putting off estate planning—after all, it’s not an upbeat topic, and it may seem easier to ignore than to tackle. There are three delay tactics that are especially common:

I’m not rich. The very word, estate, evokes visions of great wealth, but don’t let the name fool you. Estate planning is about planning how your possessions (your estate) will pass to your family in the future. These possessions include your home, and the process of planning for their passage is important for people who are anywhere on the spectrum of wealth—and not just for the very wealthy. Finally, if your possessions pass on to your family without your direction, an even larger percentage (of a smaller estate) will be gobbled up by probate costs, which will directly affect your family’s finances. By planning carefully with an experienced estate planning attorney, you’ll feel comfortable knowing that you’re leaving your family exactly what you intend to—and have worked so hard to—leave them.

I’m too young. This excuse lulls a lot of people into putting off their estate planning until they’re nearing retirement, but that doesn’t make it an ideal approach. The future’s not ours to see, and planning your estate now—and tweaking those plans as and when your circumstances change—is the best way to assure that your family will receive what they’re entitled to (with the least amount of complicated paperwork and maneuvering) when the time does come. Put simply, this peace of mind is invaluable.

I have no idea where to begin. Many people put off estate planning because they simply don’t know how to get started. Begin at the very beginning by consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney—who will work with you to assess your needs and to effectively and efficiently create a plan that protects your family’s future and that allows you to put that worry out of your mind and to enjoy your family in the present.

Contact an Experienced Estate Planning Attorney in the St. Louis and St. Charles Area Today

Your family’s financial future is far too important to leave to chance. At the Law Offices of Kenneth P. Carpin St. Louis and St. Charles, we understand the critical importance of effective estate planning. We’ll work with you to craft a comprehensive estate plan that benefits and protects your loved ones’ financial future. We’re here to help, so please contact or call us at (636) 947-3600 today.