Estate planning
Whether you know it or not, you have an estate. Your estate includes all the assets you own, including real estate and land, bank accounts, retirement accounts, stocks and securities, life insurance policies and personal property such as cars, jewelry and furniture.
A critical part of any retirement plan is to create an estate plan that defines how you want your estate handled upon your death and who you want to receive your assets. Your estate plan can also spell out your health care wishes if you become incapacitated and how any charitable contributions are to be distributed upon your passing.
Most states have different rules and requirements regarding how estate planning documents are drawn up, so consult a local attorney or legal counselor for details on arranging your estate documents.
