Retirement savings
You will want to provide information for all types of retirement savings, like a 401k, IRA, pension, Roth or any type of retirement account. The estate planning attorney will want the bank information, estimated value and any listed beneficiaries.
Life insurance
Again, bringing in a current statement may be helpful. Your attorney will want to know what company holds the policy, the type of policy, names on the account and any beneficiaries.
Business ownership
If you are a business owner, your attorney will need to know the type of business, where it is located and if ownership is shared with another party.
Personal property
This is where that oil painting comes in. If there are specific assets you want to pass on, you will need to provide your attorney with a list of these assets and who you want to receive these gifts. Again, your attorney will need full names and contact information for everyone who is receiving an item from your estate.
Before you meet with your attorney, you may want to consider whether you want a will or a living trust. You should also think about issues like picking a durable power of attorney or creating a living will. If you are unsure which options may be right for you, your estate planning attorney will discuss the benefits of each and help create a plan tailored to your situation.
