Episode 38: Estate Planning for the Holidays – Giving the Gift of Preparedness

Welcome back to Law Days and Lattes! In this special Holiday Edition, host Sidney Wheelan, attorney and founder of the Wheelan Law Firm of Moberly, Missouri, dives into an often-overlooked but invaluable gift: estate planning. This episode breaks down why the holiday season is the perfect time to secure your family’s future and how to approach these conversations with care and purpose.

Episode Highlights

Why Estate Planning Fits the Holidays

• The holidays bring families together, creating the ideal setting to discuss future plans and reflect on what matters most.
• Sidney frames estate planning as the ultimate gift of love and preparedness for your family.

What Is Estate Planning?

• Estate planning ensures your assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes.

Key documents include:

• Will: Determines who inherits your assets.
• Trusts: Helps avoid probate and may provide tax benefits.
• Healthcare Directive: Outlines medical wishes.
• Power of Attorney: Appoints someone to manage financial or legal matters on your behalf.

Why the Holidays Are the Perfect Time

• Family Is Present: Most of the people impacted by your plan are together.
• Season of Reflection: The holidays encourage meaningful discussions about legacy.
• Momentum for the New Year: Start the year with peace of mind.

Tips for discussing estate planning with loved ones

• Positive Framing: Emphasize protection and care for the family.
• Share Your Experience: Inspire action by sharing your own journey.
• Set a Collaborative Tone: Present estate planning as a team effort.

Estate Planning Checklist for the Holidays

• Gather key information about your assets, debts, and beneficiaries.
• Review and update existing documents.
• Double-check beneficiaries on financial accounts.
• Consult an estate planning attorney for professional guidance.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Not communicating with family—transparency prevents disputes.
• Forgetting digital assets—include plans for online accounts and cryptocurrencies.
• Procrastination—the best time to plan is now.

Call to Action

This holiday season, give your family the gift of preparedness. Start or update your estate plan to show your care and protect your loved ones for years to come. Contact the Wheelan Law Firm for expert guidance on your estate planning journey.

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This podcast episode contains general information for discussion purposes only. Each case is different and must be judged on its own merits. Missouri rules generally prohibit lawyers from advertising that they specialize in particular areas of the law.  This article should not be construed to suggest such specialization. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation.  This information is not intended to create an attorney-client relationship, and the listening or viewing of this podcast does not constitute an attorney-client relationship.  The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely upon advertisements.