Every October, the third week of the month marks Estate Planning Awareness Week — a time dedicated to helping families understand the importance of preparing for the future.
If you’ve been putting off creating or updating your estate plan, this week is the perfect reminder to take that step. Estate planning isn’t just about money or documents; it’s about peace of mind, protecting your loved ones, and ensuring your wishes are honored no matter what happens.
What Is Estate Planning Awareness Week?
Established by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils (NAEPC), Estate Planning Awareness Week was created to raise awareness about the importance of having a clear, legally sound plan in place for your assets, healthcare decisions, and family’s well-being.
It’s a national call to action to get organized, start important conversations, and protect your legacy.
Why Estate Planning Matters — for Everyone
Many people believe estate planning is only for the wealthy or retired, but that’s far from the truth. Every adult can benefit from having a plan that outlines:
- Who will inherit your assets when you pass away.
- Who will make medical or financial decisions if you become incapacitated.
- How your property and accounts will be managed and distributed.
- Who will care for your minor children if you’re no longer here.
Without these decisions documented, North Carolina law — not you — determines what happens.
Common Reasons People Delay Estate Planning
Even though most people agree that estate planning is important, it’s often pushed aside. Here’s why — and why it shouldn’t be:
- “I’m too young to need one.” → Life is unpredictable. Planning ahead isn’t about age — it’s about being prepared.
- “I don’t have many assets.” → Estate planning covers more than property; it includes guardianship, healthcare wishes, and digital assets too.
- “It’s too complicated.” → With the right guidance, the process can be simple, straightforward, and empowering.
What Should Be Included in an Estate Plan?
A comprehensive estate plan often includes several key documents:
- Last Will and Testament – Outlines how your assets will be distributed and who will care for your minor children.
- Revocable Living Trust – Helps your estate avoid probate and provides privacy and control over asset distribution.
- Durable Power of Attorney – Appoints someone you trust to handle financial matters if you’re unable to.
- Healthcare Power of Attorney – Names a person to make medical decisions on your behalf.
- Living Will (Advance Directive) – Expresses your wishes for medical treatment and end-of-life care.
- Beneficiary Designations – Ensures your retirement accounts, insurance, and other benefits go to the right people.
Estate Planning Is a Gift of Peace of Mind
Think of estate planning as a gift — not just for yourself, but for your family. It eliminates confusion, minimizes disputes, and ensures your loved ones are cared for without added stress.
It’s about leaving behind clarity, not chaos.
How to Get Started This Estate Planning Awareness Week
If you don’t yet have a plan, now is the time to start. If you already have one, this week is the perfect time to review it — especially if you’ve recently experienced:
- Marriage or divorce
- The birth or adoption of a child
- A major financial change
- The purchase or sale of a home
- A move to or from North Carolina
Life changes and your plan should change with it.
Estate Planning Awareness Week is a reminder that planning today creates peace of mind tomorrow. Whether you’re just getting started or need to update an existing plan, the most important step is to act.
At Sabrina Winters, Attorney at Law, PLLC, we help families throughout Charlotte and North Carolina protect what matters most with care, compassion, and clarity every step of the way.
📞 Call +1 704-843-1446
💻 Visit sabrinawinterslaw.com
Schedule your consultation today and give your loved ones the gift of peace of mind.