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Many people assume estate planning is only for older adults or the wealthy. But the truth is this: every adult needs an estate plan, no matter your age, income, or stage of life.
Whether you’re 28 or 78, married or single, raising young kids or caring for aging parents—an estate plan protects your family, your finances, and your voice if something unexpected happens.
Here’s why estate planning matters across all generations—and how to get started based on where you are in life.
Estate Planning in Your 20s and 30s
You may not own much yet, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need a plan. If you’re an adult in Georgia, especially if you’re married, have kids, or own property, basic estate documents are essential.
Key documents:
- Will – Names your heirs and appoints guardians for children
- Financial power of attorney – Authorizes someone to manage your money if you’re incapacitated
- Advance directive for healthcare – Names someone to make medical decisions if you can’t
- HIPAA authorization – Grants access to your medical records
Without these, your family may need to go to court to make decisions on your behalf—and that process can be slow, stressful, and expensive.
👉 Learn how to write a legally valid will in Georgia
Estate Planning in Your 40s and 50s
This is the most critical time to get serious about estate planning. You likely have more assets (real estate, retirement accounts, investments), dependents, and long-term goals.
Key strategies:
- Create or update your revocable living trust to avoid probate
- Review life insurance coverage and beneficiary designations
- Protect minor children’s inheritance through trusts or custodial accounts
- Coordinate with your business succession or property ownership plans
If you already have documents in place, now is the time to review them—and make sure they still reflect your current family, finances, and goals.
👉 See why families fight over inheritance—and how to prevent it
Estate Planning in Your 60s and Beyond
Now the focus shifts toward legacy planning, long-term care, and tax efficiency. Your estate plan should be reviewed for:
- Long-term care needs (and potential Medicaid planning)
- Protecting assets through irrevocable trusts or life estate deeds
- Making charitable gifts or structuring tax-efficient inheritances
- Planning for incapacity and family caregiving roles
This is also the time to talk with your children or heirs about your plan, clarify your wishes, and ensure your documents are complete, current, and legally valid.
👉 Read how to structure estate planning for second marriages
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
Estate planning isn’t just about what happens when you die—it’s also about what happens if you can’t speak for yourself due to injury or illness. A well-prepared estate plan:
- Avoids costly and public court processes
- Gives your loved ones clarity during a crisis
- Protects children, aging parents, and vulnerable heirs
- Keeps control in your hands—not the state’s
Life changes. So should your plan. The earlier you start, the more options you have.
Let Hurban Law Help You Build a Plan That Grows With You
At Hurban Law, LLC, we help individuals and families across Georgia design estate plans that are flexible, protective, and practical at every stage of life. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your legacy, we’ll guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.
Contact us today to schedule a personalized estate planning consultation.
