We each have a responsibility to provide for our future. Estate planning is part of meeting that responsibility. It’s a matter of deciding what you want to be done with your assets in your lifetime and beyond. A good plan ensures a simple, tax-efficient and organized transfer of assets to your loved ones, in accordance with your wishes.

Start by making a list of your assets and where eventually you would like them to go. Perhaps there are assets that you or your family no longer require. If so, you might want to consider giving them to a charitable organization in your lifetime. The charity will be able to use your gift immediately, and you will receive important financial and tax benefits.

Effective estate planning takes time and effort. But the effort is worthwhile because you are ensuring that loved ones will be taken care of and your wishes will be met.