When Is the Right Time to Start Estate Planning?

One of the most common questions families ask is also the one they often ask too late:

“When is the right time to start Estate Planning?”

Many people assume Estate Planning is something you do later—after retirement, after a diagnosis, or after a major life event. In reality, the best time to plan is often much earlier than people expect.

The Truth About Timing

Estate Planning is not just about preparing for death. It’s about preparing for life—especially the unexpected parts.

If you:

• Own a home
• Have children or grandchildren
• Own a business
• Have retirement accounts or life insurance
• Want a say in who makes decisions if you can’t

…then estate planning is already relevant.

Waiting often doesn’t make planning easier. Instead, it can limit your options. Documents created during a crisis are more likely to be rushed, incomplete, or influenced by stress and family pressure.

The Question Families Ask Too Late

Many families come to our office after something has already happened:

• A medical emergency
• A sudden decline in health
• A death without clear instructions

At that point, the question shifts from “What do we want?” to “What are we allowed to do?”

That difference matters. Planning ahead gives you control. Waiting can leave decisions in the hands of courts, statutes, or family members who may disagree.

Estate Planning Is About Readiness, Not Age

There is no “magic age” to start Estate Planning. Readiness isn’t about how old you are—it’s about whether your wishes are clear and legally protected.

The right time is when:

• You want to protect the people you care about
• You want to reduce stress for your family
• You want to avoid unnecessary court involvement
• You want clarity instead of uncertainty

If you’ve ever thought, “We should really get to this someday,” that’s often the sign that someday has already arrived.

A Simple First Step

Estate Planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A thoughtful conversation and a basic plan can make an enormous difference.

Starting early doesn’t mean you’re expecting the worst—it means you’re prepared for whatever comes. Call or text us at 989-872-5601 to start the conversation today.