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The meaning of National I’m in Control Day is all about taking command of your own life. To put yourself back in the driver’s seat, no matter how big or small the project. An easy way to begin is by making a list of all the things you want to take control of or accomplish. You can include things as simple as cleaning out a closet in your home, or as big as planning for your future.

One of the bigger planning for your future items that could be on your list is estate planning. People tend to believe estate planning only encompasses protecting and passing down your assets to loved ones. But estate planning can and should include much more than that and should keep you in control throughout the various stages of life. In fact, that is why we define estate planning as:

• I want to maintain control while I’m alive and well,
• I want a plan for myself and loved ones if I become disabled,
• And after I’m gone give what I have to whom I want, when I want, in the way I want.
• All while assuring my wisdom is transferred along with the rest of my wealth.

We take a comprehensive proactive approach, which may seem overwhelming, but as we help you plan for the “what-ifs” life throws your way. You can see how the process works and how it was built to keep you in control. While you are alive and well, we ensure you remain in control of your assets. You’re not locked into any one path once you initially create your plans. You can buy, sell, invest, move, change financial institutions, start a new business, etc., and we will update your plans to make sure they continue to work how you intended them to.  

We also have different ways you can plan for if you were to become disabled, so your plan continues to work for you. This can include having individuals named to take over your financial, legal, and medical decisions if you are not able to make them for yourself. It can also include having treatment plans in place for various scenarios, so your loved ones know what type of care you would like to receive. With these items decided by you in advance, you remain in control. Only the people you trust and name to act on your behalf, can. And, they have guidance you give them to ensure the care you want to happen, happens.

We also design our plans in ways to ensure what you want to have happen with your assets after you are gone, happens. You know your loved ones best. You know financially what they are capable of handling and what protections should be in place so the wealth you worked to build up and pass on, isn’t spent within a month, like a lottery winning. Safeguards can be put into place against creditors, spendthrifts, and out-laws. Guidance can be put into place, so your loved ones have the chance to gain financial responsibility before they gain more control. Your plan should be personalized to fit your circumstances and drafted in the way you want.

Proper estate planning can allow you to take the wheel and have the freedom to be in control over your affairs. Failing to do so may not only cost your independence in these choices, but the pocketbook as well. You have the power to make sure you have a proper plan in place that states when you give control to someone else, who you give control to, and what they can do. To learn more about how we can help keep you in control, you can request my an e-book of Keeping Control a Game Plan to Protect Your Estate, Your Family, and Your Money here, or you can call to schedule an initial complimentary consultation, at (248) 409-0256.