Protect yourself and your loved ones

Financial Affairs

  • Checking, Savings, and Credit Union Accounts: These accounts are the core of daily finances. Beneficiaries should be aware of the existence and details of these accounts, including account numbers and financial institutions.
  • Investment Accounts: Include a comprehensive list of investment accounts, such as brokerage accounts, mutual funds, and stock portfolios. Beneficiaries need to know about these investments and potential implications upon inheritance.
  • Business Income: If you have a business, inform beneficiaries about any business income, including profits, dividends, or ownership shares. Share details of business ownership and succession plans.
  • Asset Investments (e.g., Gold, Collectibles): Document details of non-traditional assets, such as precious metals or collectibles, and inform beneficiaries about their value and how they should be managed or sold.
  • Pensions (Corporate, Business, or Military): Specify your pension plans, including those from corporate, business, or military service. Inform beneficiaries about potential survivor benefits and the contact information for pension administrators.
  • IRA Accounts: Include individual retirement accounts (IRAs), detailing the account types (Traditional, Roth, SEP, etc.) and the beneficiaries designated for each. Beneficiaries should understand the rules regarding inherited IRAs.
  • Disability Accounts: If you have disability accounts or benefits, provide beneficiaries with information on how to access and manage these accounts if needed.
  • Trust or Inheritance Income: Share information about any trusts or inheritance income. Beneficiaries should understand their entitlement and the conditions governing these funds.
  •  Debts to Be Paid from Estate: Make a list of outstanding debts and obligations that need to be settled from the estate, such as mortgages, loans, or unpaid bills.
  •  Child/Spousal Support: If you are responsible for child or spousal support, inform beneficiaries about these obligations and the arrangements in place to ensure continued support.
  •  Business Succession Plan: If you own a business, provide details about your business succession plan, including the designated successors and the transfer of ownership or management.

Maintaining a well-organized record of these financial accounts and considerations is crucial to ensure a smooth transition for your beneficiaries. Regularly update this information as circumstances change, and communicate your intentions and wishes clearly to your loved ones.