Singles

Estate Planning for Singles

Estate planning is often associated with the traditional family—making provisions for a spouse, children, and grandchildren. But what if you’re single, with no spouse or children? You’re not alone—over 100 million Americans are single, comprising nearly half of the adult population. And as a single individual, you may actually have even greater estate planning needs than those in traditional family structures.

Why Estate Planning Matters for Singles

Unlike traditional families, where assets and decisions are automatically passed down to spouses or children, default laws often don’t align with the needs of single individuals. If you become incapacitated due to illness or injury, or if something unexpected happens, who will make decisions on your behalf? Without an estate plan, the state may appoint a guardian or conservator, often starting with someone you may not even know, or someone who doesn’t represent your wishes.

Additionally, if you don’t have a will or trust in place, state laws may direct your assets in ways you don’t intend. Single individuals have the opportunity to decide exactly who will inherit their estate—whether it’s friends, nieces and nephews, charities, or other loved ones.

Protect Yourself While You’re Alive

Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone. It’s about protecting your future while you’re still here. If you become incapacitated, who will make medical or financial decisions for you? A healthcare directive or power of attorney ensures that someone you trust is in charge of these decisions.

Control Over Your Assets

For singles, asset distribution can be tricky without a proper estate plan. State laws typically prioritize spouses and children when it comes to inheritance, but if you’re single, you may want to designate specific people or organizations to receive your assets. This ensures your estate is passed on according to your wishes.

A Plan Tailored to You

We understand that every individual is unique. We will work with you to create a personalized estate plan that reflects your specific needs, goals, and values. Our services include:

Healthcare Directives & Power of Attorney: Ensure that a trusted person can make medical and financial decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to.
Wills & Trusts: Distribute your estate to the people and causes that matter most to you.
Beneficiary Designations: Assign beneficiaries for your assets like retirement accounts or life insurance policies.
Tax Planning: Minimize your estate tax liability and protect your assets.

Get Started Today

Creating an estate plan doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re single, in a committed relationship, or living independently, it’s essential to have a plan in place that reflects your wishes. We’re here to guide you through every step of the process to ensure your future is secure.