Many single people never stop to consider estate planning. With no family to provide for, they may feel that having a plan isn’t a necessity.
However, the truth is that estate planning for single individuals is just as important, and sometimes more complex, than planning for married couples.
With the single population in the United States growing from about one-third of the total population in 1970 to almost one-half of the population today, many more people are affected. So whether you’ve always been single or you’re newly single, here are some things to consider in your estate plan.
Who will inherit from a single person who dies without Last Will & Testament can be convoluted, as the state will control the process and estate statutes are strictly enforced.
As a result, a single decedent’s solely owned assets may wind up in places they did not want or intend.
- If you have children, they would inherit first. If not, there is a descending list of persons entitled to inherit your assets, parents, siblings and then more distant relatives, in that order.
- If no living relatives can be located, the assets would pass to the state.
- Left out of this equation is an unmarried partner, close friend or favorite charity.
The same general advice applies to many other questions such as:
- Who will be appointed as your Personal Representative (the executor),
- Do you wish to be buried or cremated,
- Who is responsible for paying any taxes that occur as a result of your death
- And what happens to debt that survives you.
Therefore, it’s best to clearly specify your intentions in a written Last Will &Testament.
Another extremely important question to consider that many often overlook is who will manage your care and/or your financial matters should you become disabled.
It’s probably safe to say that you do not want these decisions made by a distant relative or a stranger appointed by the state.
Married or not, everyone needs an Advance Health Care Directive and Power of Attorney to ensure all personal decisions are handled in the manner of your choosing.
Furthermore, if you are divorced or widowed, it’s vital to make certain beneficiary designations on your insurance as well as ensure all accounts are updated to show information is in accordance with your current wishes.
Lastly, it’s imperative that you keep in mind that the options available for estate tax planning in regard to being single are more limited than for married couples, which requires great care and understanding of the differences.
So whether you’re newly single or always have been, understand the special circumstances that apply to you. You should consult an experienced estate-planning advisor.
Questions about estate planning for singles?
Contact the attorneys at Abraham & Bauer, LLC.
Planning ahead is a gift to your loved ones!
Mr. Abraham is an experienced attorney and founding member of the Law Office of Richard K. Abraham. The Sparks, MD office of the firm concentrates its practice in Estate Planning, Elder Law, Probate, Medical Assistance (Medicaid), Guardianship, Asset Preservation and Fiduciary Representation.
He is an active member in a number of professional organizations that focus on law, the senior community, and estate planning. He works with clients in Central Maryland, especially in Towson, Hunt Valley, Lutherville/Timonium, Parkville, White Marsh, Bel Air & Northern Baltimore City.
Schedule a consultation to help you and your loved ones.