As a parent, it is understandable that you want to ensure that your children are provided for regardless of age. One of your priorities is ensuring your estate planning goals are in order, and you may ask your Texas estate planning attorney; how do I treat my kids fairly in my will? Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to treat your kids fairly will depend on your circumstances. However, our Bryan, Texas, estate planning attorneys have put together tips or general guidelines to consider as you create your estate plan.
How do I treat my kids fairly in my will?
As you create your will, it’s important to consider treating your children fairly but not always equally. Below are some guidelines that may help, including;
- The age of your children. If your children are young, consider leaving their inheritance in trust until they reach a certain age. A trust will help to protect their money from being squandered or lost.
- Consider each child’s individual circumstances. When deciding how to divide your assets in your will, it is essential to consider each of your children’s unique needs and circumstances. For example, if one child struggles financially, you may want to leave them more money than another financially secure child.
- The needs of your children. If one child has special needs, you may want to leave them additional money to help them with their care.
- Be transparent and open with your children about your plans. It is essential to be transparent and open with your children about your plans for your estate, including how you intend to distribute your assets. Transparency will help to avoid any surprises or misunderstandings after your death.
- The relationship between your children. If your children are not close, consider leaving them different amounts of money to avoid conflict. However, ensuring your will is clear and concise is vital to avoid ambiguity about what you want to happen.
How to protect yourself and your children in your estate plan
Additionally, as you create your estate planning, you should also think about the following;
- Be flexible. Things can change quickly, so it is essential to be flexible in your estate planning. If your circumstances change, you may want to revisit your will and make changes to reflect your new wishes.
- Seek professional advice. If you need help treating your kids fairly in your will, it is best to seek professional advice from a Texas estate planning attorney. You also want to ensure your will is legally binding.
- An attorney can help you understand your options and make decisions that are in the best interests of your children. An estate planning attorney can help you create a will tailored to your specific needs and wishes.
- Your financial situation. It is essential to consider your financial situation when deciding how to divide your assets in your will. If you have limited assets, you may be unable to leave each child an equal inheritance.
How an estate planning attorney can help
Ultimately, as mentioned above, the best way to treat your kids fairly in your will is to make decisions based on your love for them and your desire to provide for their future and do what you think is right. There is no right or wrong answer, and what is fair for one family may not be suitable for another. However, an estate planning attorney can guide you and give you the best possible plan based on your wishes that meets your needs.
It is also important to remember that you can always change your will later on if your circumstances change. So the critical thing is ensuring you have an estate plan created. Being honest with yourself and your kids about your wishes and creating a will reflects your true intentions.
Need help with your estate planning?
Protecting your inheritance and your assets is essential. If you have questions or need guidance in putting your plan and wishes in place. Our attorneys are here to help you protect your assets and ensure that your family is taken care of. Download our free Estate Planning Guide. If you have questions about estate planning, contact C.E. Borman & Associates at 979-271-6343.
C.E. Borman & Associates is an American Lawyer Top 100 Law Firm.
C.E. Borman & Associates have served the Brazos Valley for over 20 years. Our attorneys and legal staff are committed to straight talk and honest advice.
We provide exceptional value to our clients and often make life-long, remarkable changes that benefit future generations. Contact us if you need a divorce or family law attorney. Call (979) 200-6680.
