Greensburg Attorneys Recognize Need for Estate Planning, Particularly Among Black Americans
While COVID-19 has spurred many people to tackle estate planning tasks, two out of three adults still don’t have a will and less than 28% of Black Americans have one, according to Caring.com’s 2021 survey on estate planning. This is, of course, very concerning for the estate planning attorneys at Long & Long.
Since 2015, Caring.com has conducted wills surveys to raise awareness of the importance of estate planning, especially among people who may feel they lack the resources needed to create a will or living trust.
Caring.com partnered with YouGov to survey 2,500 Americans last year to get a picture of who engages in estate planning, and why or why not.
According to the survey, many Americans simply “haven’t gotten around to” making estate plans, but others put off the process because they aren’t sure how to go about it or operate under the misconception that they don’t have enough assets to require an estate plan.
A recent story on Good Morning America suggests many families, particularly in Black communities avoid having discussions about uncomfortable topics such as dying and finances.
“While no one enjoys thinking about their own mortality, it’s important to plan for your family’s future security; and it can be empowering to know your wishes will be carried out after you’re gone,” said Nicole M. Pardus, one of the estate planning attorneys at Long & Long.
What if I don’t have a will?
Without the proper plans in place, your home, bank accounts, life insurance, vehicles and any other assets must be disbursed according to intestate succession laws. The estate planning attorneys at Long & Long can help you document your wishes and provide peace of mind about your family’s future.
I don’t have that many assets. Is this really important?
Every adult should have an estate plan. In addition to transferring assets from generation to generation, estate planning helps you address critical issues like naming a guardian for your children and appointing someone to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to speak for yourself.
Get Professional Assistance
Regardless of the value of your estate, it’s important to get professional advice to protect your assets and pass them seamlessly to your loved ones. If you’re ready to begin planning for your will and estate, call the Greensburg estate planning attorneys at Long & Long today at 724.834.9300.