“Your Comprehensive Guide to Estate Planning and Legacy Preservation”
Build a Future That Matters
Introduction to Resources
Welcome to the Legacy Saints Resource Hub! Whether you’re just beginning your estate planning journey or looking to refine your existing plan, our carefully curated articles and guides are here to help. Dive into our collection of insightful articles and detailed guides to gain clarity and confidence in securing your legacy.
3. Understanding Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs)
4 .Estate Planning Checklist
5. Tax Planning for Your Estate
6. How to Safely Store Your Will and Estate Documents
7. Choosing the Right Executor
8. Planning for Care Costs
9. Leaving a Legacy Through Charity
10. Digital Legacy Planning
Download Resources
Estate Planning Checklist
Gather Personal Information
1. Full legal names and dates of birth for you and your family.
2. Social Security numbers or national IDs.
3. Contact information for key people involved (executor, guardians, attorneys)..
Collect Financial Information
1. Bank and investment account details.
2. Retirement accounts (pensions, 401(k), etc.).
3. Life insurance policies.
4. Real estate ownership documents.
Make Key Decisions
1. Who will serve as executor of your will?
2. Who will act as guardians for minor children (if applicable)?
3. Assign trustees if establishing trusts.
Draft Estate Documents
1. Wills.
2. Trust agreements.
3. Powers of attorney (financial and healthcare).
Plan for Taxes
1. Understand inheritance tax laws in your jurisdiction.
2. Evaluate the need for professional tax advice.
Communicate Your Plan
1. Discuss your plans with beneficiaries and key participants.
2. Provide instructions to your executor and attorney.
Regular Review
1. Update your estate plan every 3-5 years or after major life events.
Will Writing Template
Introduction
1. Your full legal name and current address.
2. A declaration revoking all previous wills and codicils.
3. Date of creation of this will.
Appointment of Executor(s)
1. Full name(s) and relationship(s) of executor(s).
2. Alternative executor(s) if the primary is unable or unwilling to serve.
Beneficiaries
1. Full names and contact information.
2. Specify exact shares or items to be distributed to each beneficiary.
Specific Gifts
1. Detailed description of items (jewelry, vehicles, etc.) or sums of money.
Residual Estate:
1. Plan for remaining assets after specific gifts have been distributed.
Guardianship (if applicable)
1. Name of guardian(s) for minor children.
2. Contingency plans if the named guardian cannot serve.
Signatures
1. Your signature, date, and place of signing.
2. Signatures of two independent witnesses (with printed names and addresses).
Executor Duties Guide
Understand Your Role
1. Read and understand the will.
2. Familiarize yourself with legal obligations as an executor.
Secure and Assess Assets
1. Locate and secure physical assets (real estate, valuables, etc.).
2. Identify and manage financial assets (accounts, investments, insurance).
Handle Debts and Liabilities
1. Notify creditors of the death.
2. Pay off outstanding debts and taxes from estate funds.
Obtain Probate
1. Apply for a Grant of Probate (if required).
2. File the necessary paperwork with the court.
Distribute the Estate
1. Follow the instructions in the will.
2. Provide an accounting to beneficiaries and the court (if required).
Maintain Records
1. Keep detailed records of all transactions and communications.
2. Retain documentation for future reference.
Close the Estate
1. Ensure all liabilities are cleared.
2. Distribute remaining funds/assets to beneficiaries.
3. File a final estate tax return.
LPA Application Form Instructions
Determine the Type of LPA
1. Health and Welfare: Covers medical and personal care decisions.
2. Property and Financial Affairs: Covers financial and property matters.
Fill in Donor Information
1. Full legal name, date of birth, and current address.
Choose Attorneys
1. Select trusted individuals to act on your behalf.
2. Consider naming replacement attorneys as a contingency.
Specify Instructions and Preferences
1. Outline specific instructions (e.g., managing finances, healthcare decisions).
2. Include any preferences for how decisions should be made.
Sign and Witness the Form
1. The donor must sign the form in the presence of a witness.
2. Attorneys must also sign and have their signatures witnessed.
Register the LPA
1. Submit the completed form to the Office of the Public Guardian.
2. Include the registration fee (check current fee requirements).
Notify Interested Parties
1. Inform family members or other relevant parties of the LPA.
2. Provide copies to healthcare providers or financial institutions if needed.
Tools and Information to Support Your Clients
Ready To Begin?
At Legacy Saints, we understand that planning your legacy can feel overwhelming, but we’re here to make the process simple, clear, and stress-free. Whether you’re starting from scratch or updating your existing plans, we provide the tools and support you need to protect what matters most.
Here’s How You Can Get Started Today:
1. Choose the Right Service for You
Explore our straightforward will-writing services starting from £250.
Learn about Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPAs) to safeguard your health and finances.
2. Access Expert Guidance
Our dedicated team is ready to walk you through every step.
Get personalized advice tailored to your family’s needs and circumstances.
3. Start Building Your Legacy Now
Protect your loved ones and secure your future in just a few simple steps.
From straightforward wills to comprehensive estate planning, we’ve got you covered.
Ready To Begin?
Explore our resources below or contact us to speak with a member of our team. Your legacy is too important to wait—take the first step today.
