As a tax professional specializing in Estate planning, I spend a good portion of my time emphasizing to clients the importance of getting their affairs in order. I remind them that life is unpredictable, that having a solid estate plan ensures their loved ones aren’t left dealing with legal and financial chaos, and that the best time to do it is now—not later.
And yet, here I am, fully aware of all these facts, and my own family’s estate plan remains unfinished.
It’s not for lack of trying. I’ve had the conversations. I’ve urged my parents we need to get it done. They don’t argue with me. They don’t push back or say it’s unnecessary. Instead, we collectively push it off—always for a seemingly valid reason.
“We’ll do it after we finish selling this property.”
“Let’s wait until tax season is over.”
“We should talk about it after the holidays.”
Before I know it, another year has passed, and despite my professional expertise, my own family is just like so many of the clients I advise—knowing it’s important but never quite making it a priority.
Why does this happen? I think, in part, it’s because estate planning feels like something we always have time to get around to. There’s no immediate crisis, no urgent deadline. And when it comes to family, there’s an emotional weight to the process that makes it easier to delay.
I get it. But I also know better.
So, if you’ve also been putting off Estate planning for your own family, take this as a reminder that there will never be a perfect time to do it. Life will always be busy, and other things will always feel more urgent. But getting it done now is the best way to ensure your loved ones are protected when it matters most.
Because at the end of the day, the best time to do estate planning isn’t after the next big life event. It’s now.
Don’t let too late come too soon.
Estate Planning FAQs
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Estate planning often gets postponed because it forces people to confront uncomfortable realities like mortality, family disagreements, and financial decisions. Even professionals who advise others on estate planning sometimes delay creating their own plans. Busy schedules, emotional reluctance, or the misconception that “it can wait” all contribute. The irony is that those who understand its importance are often the ones procrastinating. JAK reminds clients that estate planning is not just a legal necessity—it’s an act of care for loved ones. By tackling it sooner, you reduce stress, avoid complications, and provide clarity when it’s needed most.
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Delaying estate planning can leave your family facing unnecessary challenges. Without a plan, state laws determine how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes. Probate can be lengthy and costly, and disputes between family members are more likely to arise. In addition, failing to establish powers of attorney or healthcare directives can leave loved ones without guidance during critical moments. Taxes may also be higher without strategic planning. JAK helps clients address these risks by creating estate plans that provide protection, reduce costs, and bring peace of mind for both individuals and their families.
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No, estate planning is important for everyone. Even modest estates can benefit from proper planning, as it ensures assets are distributed according to your wishes, reduces legal delays, and protects your family from unnecessary stress. Estate planning also involves more than money—it includes decisions about guardianship, healthcare, and who will manage affairs if you’re unable. JAK emphasizes that the true value of an estate plan is the clarity it provides, not the size of the estate. Every individual, regardless of income or wealth, deserves the protection and peace of mind that a well-structured estate plan offers.
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Professionals like attorneys and accountants often advise others to create estate plans but sometimes neglect their own. By completing their plans, professionals set a strong example, demonstrating accountability and credibility. This authenticity strengthens client relationships and provides firsthand experience they can share. JAK works with professionals as well as clients to make the process manageable and approachable. Leading by example also helps normalize estate planning conversations, making it less intimidating for those who may hesitate. When professionals practice what they preach, they not only protect their own families but also inspire others to take responsible action.
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The key to overcoming procrastination is to start small. Schedule an initial consultation and gather basic documents such as tax returns, insurance policies, and asset lists. Once that first step is taken, momentum builds, and the process becomes less intimidating. JAK simplifies each stage, providing checklists, guidance, and ongoing support to ensure nothing feels overwhelming. Breaking the process into manageable steps reduces anxiety and helps clients move forward. By reframing estate planning as a gift of protection and clarity for your family, it becomes easier to take action. The hardest step is starting—but once started, the benefits are undeniable.