How can I ensure that my wishes are carried out after my death?
Ensuring that your wishes are carried out after your death is an important part of estate planning law in Alaska. The most common way to make sure that your wishes are carried out is to create a will. A will is a legally binding document that outlines how you would like your assets and possessions to be distributed after your death. A will typically names specific beneficiaries and also specifies which individuals should handle your estate after your death. If you don’t create a will, Alaska has intestate succession laws which dictate how your estate should be distributed. Another way to ensure that your wishes are carried out is to create a trust. A trust is a legal entity that manages assets and possessions for the benefit of a beneficiary. A trust is created by a grantor, who transfers assets into the trust in order to provide financial benefits for the beneficiary. You can create a trust while you are alive and designate a trustee, who will manage the trust’s assets and make sure that your wishes are carried out after your death. Finally, it is important to update your estate plan as your life changes. This includes updating your will or trust, or adding a power of attorney if you become incapacitated. You should also designate a healthcare proxy and adjust beneficiary designations for bank accounts, retirement plans, and life insurance policies. By doing this, you can ensure that your wishes are carried out after your death.
Related FAQs
How should I select executors for my estate?What should I do if I want to disinherit a beneficiary?
What steps should I take to make sure my estate plan is properly executed?
What happens if I move to another state while my estate is still in the process of being settled?
What is a funeral directive and why should I have one?
What legal documents will I need to establish my estate plan?
How do I plan for a child or grandchild with special needs?
How can I protect my family's inheritance from creditors?
How should I choose an executor for my will?
Should I hire a lawyer to help with my estate planning?
Related Blog Posts
Understanding Estate Planning Law: What You Need to Know - July 31, 2023Developing an Estate Plan: A Guide for Families - August 7, 2023
Tax Planning Strategies for Estate Planning Professionals - August 14, 2023
The Basics of Estate Distribution and Taxation - August 21, 2023
Exploring the Benefits of a Living Will - August 28, 2023