Taxation & Estate Planning

I recently heard a story about a man who had passed away suddenly, leaving behind a young adult daughter.  He had been at a job that had offered him life insurance and certain other benefits when he retired a few years back.  However, as the grieving daughter began to sort through things, she realized that he had never signed any of the paperwork that would have put these benefits into effect.   

Maybe the father thought he'd get around to it soon, maybe there was a miscommunication with the company, but the reality of it is that this man's only heir is now left with a lot less than what her father intended.  And when she should be dealing with the death of her father, the daughter is having to deal with human resource departments, insurance companies and attorneys. 

Take some time over the next week or so to check in with your employer (or yourself if you are your own employer) to make sure that you've signed up for all the benefits that will protect your family in the event of your death or disability.  Make sure the papers have all been properly filled out, and that your beneficiary designations are current.

If it's been a few years since you've reviewed your estate plan, go over that as well to make sure it is still up to date.  If you haven't done your estate plan yet, call me at 781-749-2284 to find out how to get started.