Estate Planning Isn’t Just for the Wealthy—It’s for the Wise
I remember sitting across from a client—let’s call her Monica—who told me plainly, “I really don’t have much. Just a car, a checking account, and a few pieces of jewelry my grandma left me. I don’t think I need a whole estate plan.” Her words echoed something I’ve heard many times over the years: My situation is simple. I don’t have enough to worry about.
But here’s the truth: The value of estate planning isn’t measured in dollars—it’s measured in clarity, peace of mind, and protection for the people you love.
The Myth of the “Simple Estate”
We live in a culture that often ties estate planning to wealth—trusts for the ultra-rich, tax shelters, complicated corporate structures. And while those things can be part of estate planning, they’re not the core of what most families need.
Monica didn’t consider how hard it would be for her daughter to access even her small checking account without legal authority. She hadn’t named anyone to make medical decisions if she became incapacitated. And she never thought about what might happen if two people in her life wanted the same piece of jewelry that held sentimental value.
The truth is, things can get complicated really quickly—even with a “non-complex” estate.
What Could Go Wrong?
Let me tell you about another family I worked with—two siblings who lost their mom unexpectedly. She had no will, no powers of attorney, and no clear instructions.
What followed was months of court hearings, hurt feelings, and thousands of dollars in legal fees. One sibling wanted to sell the house immediately. The other wanted to keep it in the family. There was no guidance—just grief and tension.
It didn’t have to be that way.
DIY Planning: Better Than Nothing?
You might be wondering, Can’t I just use an online form? It’s tempting. It’s fast, inexpensive, and marketed as foolproof.
But even the best online tool can’t think through your unique family dynamics or the specific laws in your state. It can’t ask questions like:
Do any of your children have special needs?
Are you in a blended family?
Is there someone in your life who shouldn’t be managing money or making medical decisions for you?
And once that form is signed, it won’t keep up with life changes—like a divorce, a new grandchild, or a shift in your health.
A Plan That Reflects You
At its heart, estate planning isn’t about legal documents. It’s about your voice. Your wishes. Your story. Who do you want to care for your children if something happens? Who gets your grandmother’s wedding ring? Who steps in if you’re hospitalized?
That’s why I do this work. Because even the “smallest” estate is rich with meaning, relationships, and legacy.
Take the First Step
You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t need a massive portfolio or complicated assets. What you need is someone who will listen, understand your life, and help create a plan that honors what matters most.
If you’ve been putting off estate planning because you think you don’t have “enough” to plan for—consider this your nudge.
Because not planning at all? That’s a plan too—and not one most people would choose. Contact us today to learn more.
This article is a service of Cedar Counsel. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love.