Protecting what’s important

Making sure the future is financially secure for you and those close to you goes beyond planning for retirement. While it’s not something anyone likes to consider, planning your estate may make things a little easier for your family and friends down the track.

Planning your estate

Your estate is basically everything you own. We’re talking about your home, investments, savings, cheque accounts, car, family heirlooms, furniture, shares - literally, everything. Estate planning is when you create a clear set of instructions that decides what happens to these belongings after you pass away. Without an estate plan, your assets are distributed according to your state’s laws - not your wishes.

Even if you don’t have much to your name, planning your estate is a simple and straightforward way to protect the people you care about from conflict or uncertainty after you’re gone. It’s also the best way to ensure your most special belongings go to the people who will treasure them.

Your will is the legal document included in your estate plan that specifically breaks down exactly which assets go to each person. In Australia, it can be as simple as buying a will kit from your local Australia Post or news agency. For more complicated estates, it might be a good idea to get advice from a solicitor or the Public Trustee.

Reviewing your Will

Life is always changing. That’s why it’s so important to review and update your estate plan as your life evolves. You may consider making changes when you:

• Get married

• Get divorced

• Have kids

• Have a partner, dependent or loved one pass away

• Experience financial hardship

Risk insurance

Income is often one of the first things that is compromised when life doesn’t go to plan. We can help you protect yourself and your family by finding the right Income Protection and Life Insurance for your situation. Think about these policies as a safety net to ensure your family is looked after when the unexpected happens.