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Year-End Estate Planning Checklist

Our San Diego attorneys take the time to understand your unique goals and craft solutions tailored to your needs. Get in touch with Sole Law, APC today for help.

December 10, 2024

The year is coming to a close, and it’s the perfect time to look ahead. Are your assets protected? Does your plan reflect recent changes in your family or financial situation? At Sole Law, APC, our San Diego estate planning attorneys work with you to create plans that safeguard your future and bring peace of mind. Whether you are updating your existing estate plan or starting fresh, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. 

Why Year-End Estate Planning Matters

Estate planning is not just about distributing assets—it’s about protecting your family, reducing legal complications, and ensuring your wishes are honored. By reviewing your plan at the end of each year, you can address life changes and take advantage of new opportunities to minimize taxes and protect your legacy.

Update Your Will and Trusts:

Ensure your will and trust align with your current goals.

Account for recent life events like marriage, divorce, births, or deaths in the family.

Check Beneficiary Designations:

  • Confirm that retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and payable-on-death accounts reflect your current intentions.
  • Avoid unintended inheritances by keeping these designations updated.

Review Your Powers of Attorney:

  • Ensure that the individuals you’ve chosen to make financial or healthcare decisions on your behalf are still appropriate.
  • Update these documents if your circumstances or relationships have changed.

Explore Tax-Saving Opportunities:

  • Speak with your estate planning attorney about gifting strategies, charitable donations, or trusts that can reduce estate taxes.
  • Take advantage of any year-end tax exclusions or benefits available in California.

Organize Important Documents:

  • Gather deeds, titles, insurance policies, account details, and legal documents.
  • Store these in a secure location and share their whereabouts with trusted family members or advisors.

What Happens Without a Solid Estate Plan?

Without a legally binding estate plan, your assets may go through probate—a lengthy and costly court process. During probate:

  • Your family could face delays in accessing funds or property.
  • A judge, rather than you, decides how your assets are distributed.
  • Probate costs can reduce the inheritance left to your loved ones.

By taking proactive steps now, you can avoid these complications and ensure your family is protected from unnecessary stress.

Why Choose Sole Law, APC?

At Sole Law, APC, we understand that estate planning is personal. Our San Diego attorneys take the time to understand your unique goals and craft solutions tailored to your needs. With years of experience and a compassionate approach, we aim to simplify the process and give you confidence in your plan.

Plan for the Years to Come, Today

Don’t wait to secure your family’s future. Contact Sole Law, APC today to schedule a consultation with a trusted San Diego estate planning attorney. Whether you are updating an existing plan or starting from scratch, we are here to help.

Practice Area:   
Estate Planning
Sole Gaona Webb

Sole Gaona Webb

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