One
very important aspect of planning for the future is to take time to consider your
overall financial and estate plans. Many people never get around to making a will
or other estate plan, for example, and that's a real shame because so many good
things can come out of the planning process -- not the least of which is your
own peace of mind.
If
you are ready to consider making or reviewing your estate plan, consider using
the four "P's" as a simple guide. Before going to visit your attorney and/or other
professional advisor, take time to list the following:
PEOPLE:
Who are all the people in your life who depend on you or whom you might want to
remember in your plans? Spouse, children, grandchildren, other relatives, friends
and loved ones come to mind.
PROPERTY:
What are the various properties you own that together make up your estate? List
real estate, insurance, annuities, mortgages held, automobiles, furniture, etc.
Make a note of the cost of each, the estimated current value and any income or
debt involved.
PLANS:
How would you like to match your properties to the people you have listed? Be
sure to include any plans you have to remember your charitable interests, such
as HOPE Services.
PLANNERS:
Who are the people you will need to talk with to complete your plan? Remember
to list your attorney, insurance agent, broker, trust officer, certified financial
planner and perhaps others.
Once you have been
through this process, you are ready to put it all together. We at HOPE
Services would be most honored to be a part of your future plans. If
you would like more information about us, or if we can help in any way,
please feel free to call Sue
Landgraf, V.P. Resource Development, HOPE Services at 408-284-2887 or
e-mail slandgraf@hopeservices.org.
Thank you for your consideration of HOPE Services.
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