10 Steps to Creating a Good Estate Plan

By Julie Garber, About.com Guide

Even if the value of your estate isn't near the state and/or federal estate tax limits, you'll still need to look at other financial reasons why you may need an estate plan. If you own one or more businesses, have significant retirement assets, or will be expecting a large inheritance, then you'll need an estate plan to insure that your property goes where you want it to go without any interference from a judge:

• Estate Planning for Your Financial Situation
• How to Plan for Exiting Your Business if You Become Disabled or Die

And, regardless of your net worth, you'll still need to assess your overall need for an estate plan by looking at your current family situation. If you have minor children or a blended family, or if you're single, or if you own property in more than one state, then you'll still need an estate plan to insure that your assets go where you want them to go and without any interference from a judge:

• Top Reasons for Estate Planning
• Estate Planning for Your Family Situation
• You're Young, Do You Need an Estate Plan?

Once you determine your overall need for an estate plan, be it for financial or family reasons, or both, the next step is to find and hire a qualified estate planning attorney to help you create your estate plan.