Giving Thanks by Planning Your Estate

Embracing the Spirit of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday; it's a cherished time of year when we gather with family and friends to express gratitude for the blessings in our lives. It's a season filled with warmth, love, and the joy of giving back. While many of us show our thanks through shared meals and thoughtful gifts, there's another, profoundly impactful way to express our appreciation—by planning our estate. Estate planning is not just about legal protocols; it's about love, legacy, and ensuring your family's future.

Expressing Love Through Estate Planning

Astonishingly, only 24% of U.S. adults have a will as of 2025, and among those aged 18–34, just 24% have created such a critical document. As an estate planning lawyer, I've witnessed firsthand the peace and comfort that a robust, up-to-date estate plan provides to family members. It is one of the most meaningful ways to show care and gratitude to our loved ones.

Why Now is the Time

The Thanksgiving season is a perfect time to start or revisit your estate plan if you haven’t done so recently. As you reflect on who and what you're thankful for, consider the legacy you wish to impart. Ensuring your wishes are clearly documented is not only a gift of clarity but also of love and foresight for those you leave behind.

Practical Steps to Begin

If you're ready to embark on this important journey, here are some practical tips to help you get started:

• Take Inventory of Current Documents: Review any existing wills or estate plans to ensure they still align with your wishes.
• Identify Trusted Decision Makers: Think about who you trust to make significant decisions on your behalf when you cannot.
• Communicate Clearly with Family: Share your intentions with your loved ones to ensure that everyone understands your wishes and supports your decisions.

A Gift of Clarity and Foresight

Estate planning doesn’t need to be intimidating. Rather, it's an opportunity to provide your family with certainty and care, fueled by thoughtfulness and thankfulness. The holiday season is a fitting time to act on this endeavor of love. Replying to this post or reaching out to an estate planning professional could be the first easy step towards ensuring your legacy and expressing gratitude in the most enduring way.