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Short on time? This FAQ covers some of the most common questions and concerns about estate planning, probate, and how to protect your loved ones.

Estate planning involves creating legal documents, such as wills and trusts, to ensure your wishes are carried out, your assets are protected, and your loved ones are cared for after your lifetime.

A will outlines how your assets should be distributed after you pass away, while a trust can manage and distribute assets during your lifetime and after. Trusts also offer added benefits like avoiding probate.

Probate is the court-supervised process of distributing a deceased person’s estate. While it can be time-consuming and costly, proper estate planning—using tools like trusts—can help your loved ones avoid probate.

A Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to make financial or healthcare decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so. It’s a critical tool for protecting your interests in case of incapacity.

With proper planning, tools like Medicaid planning and asset protection strategies can help preserve your estate while allowing you to qualify for care when you need it.

It’s never too early to start estate planning. Life is unpredictable, and having a plan in place ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for, no matter what happens.