How many seniors in Shreveport and the state as a whole are participating in estate planning?
When planning an estate, there are a lot of tools to consider. While the last will and testament is possibly the most popular option, trusts are also available. Trusts are legal entities designed to manage and distribute assets. Here is IRS data regarding the number of people who have filed complex and simple trusts in Louisiana:
The number of seniors in Louisiana stands at more than 550,000. When compared to the number of people who filed trusts in the state, it seems that not enough older adults are taking the steps necessary to ensure their end-of-life affairs are in order. Finding an estate planning lawyer in Texarkana or Shreveport can help your aging loved one draw up a will, trust, or any other document that will make sure their final wishes are taken care of.
How many seniors in Shreveport are participating in estate planning?
While adults at any age can have a will drafted, some don’t consider taking this step because estate planning is just not on their radar. For some, having a health scare can encourage them to begin the estate planning process. But how many are influenced by age? The following AARP data shows the prevalence of wills among seniors:
Prevalence of wills among older adults
Adults age 72 or older with a will
Adults age 53-71 with a will
Adults 72 or older with power of attorney in place
It’s more common for seniors over the age of 71 than their younger counterparts to have a will whether it has been initiated under traditional circumstances or with power of attorney in place. If your older adult falls into the category of seniors who have not yet started the estate planning process, there are many fantastic estate planning services in the Shreveport area to help get them on the right track.
How to choose the best estate planning attorney in Shreveport
There are several steps you can take to help your elderly loved one find a trustworthy estate planning lawyer in Texarkana or Shreveport. You can start by checking reviews of attorneys in your area and also ask around for recommendations. Once you’ve narrowed your options, consider checking fees to ensure attorneys charge in a range that your senior can pay. You can ask attorneys for references, and if they don’t provide them, feel free to eliminate them from consideration.
Another step you can take while searching for a Shreveport estate planning attorney is to ensure that the services they offer align with your elderly loved one’s specific estate planning needs. You can also have your senior communicate with candidates to confirm that they have a good rapport since their relationship will be long-term.
Feel free to review our comprehensive guide to choosing an estate planning attorney for more information on this topic.
Estate planning solutions for Shreveport seniors
Though the discussion of estate planning is one that many seniors and relatives would like to postpone, it can help avoid a lot of conflicts and hassles down the line. A Shreveport estate planning attorney is skilled at helping your elderly loved one understand the best steps to take to plan their estate based on their specific circumstances. To get started with locating the right attorney, let Seasons guide your search. Review our free Shreveport estate planning attorney listings today.
