10-Minute Estate Planning Checklist Available Online from Beier Howlett PC

Oct. 17, 2011 - PRLog -- National Estate Planning Awareness Week is October 17 – 21, 2011

It is estimated that over 120 million Americans do not have up-to-date estate plans to protect themselves and their families in the event of sickness, accident, or untimely death, according to the National Association of Estate Planners and Councils.  Furthermore, many people may not know where to begin what seems like a complicated process.  
Beier Howlett P.C. has made the first step to estate planning simple by publishing a Checklist of Concerns as We Grow Older, available on the firm’s website at www.beierhowlett.com/probate-estate-planning.php. The 14-point checklist provides a roadmap for the critical personal and financial information that family will need in the event of your incapacitation.  From key bills that must be paid to computer accounts and passwords, the checklist provides an outline of important information to assemble.  Every person with a family or property should ensure that this checklist is complete; make the information available to a designated person and tell them where it is kept; and update the list annually.  
“Taking ten minutes to ensure that your personal and financial documentation is up-to-date and accessible to someone you trust can lessen the stress on your family if something unexpected should happen to you,” said Katherine Albrecht, a partner with the Probate & Estate Planning Group at Beier Howlett.  “Our checklist is a simple start to your estate plan, and can help to ensure your existing information is updated annually.  However, developing a comprehensive estate plan with a qualified attorney is crucial, especially as you reach retirement age.”
Beier Howlett was recognized by U.S. News & World Report last year as one of America’s Best Law Firms for Trust and Estate Law.  Beier Howlett attorney Stephen Jones has been recognized as a top trust and estate lawyer by several national and local publications, and a 5 Star Wealth Manager by HOUR Detroit.  Jones co-drafted legislation to repeal the Michigan Inheritance Tax.  
For more than 100 years, the firm has provided clients with a commitment to prompt, efficient and professional services. In addition, the firm has been selected as one of the Best Law Firms in America by U.S. News & World Report.  Several of our lawyers have been named Best Lawyers in America, Michigan Super Lawyers and dbusiness Top Lawyers.
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