It seems like just yesterday that we were all breathing a cautious sigh of relief, hoping that the worst of Covid was behind us.
Unfortunately…that might not be the case.
We’re all hearing about or experiencing first-hand the effects of the newest strain. Now is the time to make sure we’ve learned from the last 18 months and put things in place should the unthinkable happen.
1. Communicate with your family.
Write a letter to your family outlining your assets, your accounts, and any other crucial information they might need to know. This doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s just important that it gets done.
2. Put the letter in a safe place.
Make sure your family members know where this information is located. A family safe, a filing cabinet…get your important paperwork together and make sure everyone knows where it is.
3. Take it one step further.
Talk to an estate attorney and/or financial professional to make sure you have everything in place. While no one likes to think about it, visions of your loved ones trying to muddle through your estate while they’re grieving should be the motivation you need to get this done.
Of course I’m going to advocate that you get everything organized by using professional services – but I’m also realistic enough to know that some people don’t have the time or financial means to do that right now. That’s okay. If you can just do the first two steps on this list, you’ve accomplished a lot.
Our community continues to be in my thoughts and prayers as we come together once again.
Debbie Charpentier has been serving clients since 1989 by using a holistic, comprehensive approach that helps clients create the life they value and the legacy they envision. Charpentier Wealth Strategies is a Bakersfield, CA Financial Planning practice that offers fee-based financial planning services. To contact Debbie, email Debbie.Charpentier@LFG.com. http://charpentierwealth.com/ Debbie Charpentier is a registered representative offering securities and investment advisory services through Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., (Member SIPC). Charpentier Wealth Strategies is a marketing name for registered representatives of Lincoln Financial Advisors. CRN-3711265-081021