While it seems like it just ended, hurricane season in Georgia is back. Starting June 1 to November 30 it is highly recommended that you and your family have a disaster readiness plan. This should include food, water, evacuation route…and an estate plan.
Yes that’s right, an estate plan. Life can be unpredictable, and one of the most unpredictable aspects of life in Georiga is mother nature. Even with the BEST disaster preparedness plan, there is no way to know for sure how a disaster such as a hurricane may effect you and your family. So while you’re packing your pantry with canned spaghettios and jugs of sweet tea, don’t forget to call your Georgia estate planning attorney. If you don’t already have an estate planning attorney, call 912-352-3999 – we know a couple of guys.
What’s the worst that could happen?
Many people in the midst of a storm worry about what might happen to their pets, children, homes and other belongings. The important piece missing in this frenzy of worry is: what if something happens to YOU? What will become of your pets, children, home and belongings if you were to become incapacitated or die? Do you have a well thought out plan in place with instructions for handle your most precious things in life? Answer the following questions:
- Do you have specific wishes that you would like to be carried out upon your death/incapacity?
- Is there someone you specifically have in mind that you would like to carry out decisions for you should you die or become incapacitated?
- Do you have legal guardianship over any minor children?
- Do you want to make sure that your sweet family cat, Mittens, is taken care of if you are no longer able to do so?
If you answered yes to any or all of these questions, it’s time to create your estate plan. Preferrably before any unplanned disasters take place.
If You Already Have an Estate Plan
If it hasn’t been updated in the last 2 years, it’s time for a refresh. Chances are, a few things have changed over the last couple years, and your estate plan is not reflecting these changes. A few things that can effect an estate plan are birth, death, marriage, divorce, etc. If you are unsure of beneficiary, guardian or trustee designations, call your estate planning lawyer. You don’t want to leave your ex the keys to the castle.
The Best Hurricane Readiness Plan
On average, one to two hurricanes make landfall on the US East coast every year. Hopefully not, but an estate plan may be the most important piece of your disaster readiness plan this year! Are you prepared?
If you need assistance creating an estate plan or making amendments to your current documents, give us a call: 912-352-3999