Do It Yourself Estate Planning

In a time when everybody is trying to save money is estate planning software a good way to save money? That is a “loaded” question. Certainly using estate planning software is cheaper than hiring an attorney. But is it a good solution? Will the software create the documents that accomplish your wishes?

A New York Times writer tested several different estate planning software programs. The the writer had the documents reviewed by an attorney. This link is to his article titled In Using Software to Write a Will, a Lawyer is still Helpful.

When you hire an attorney that has experience in preparing Wills, Trusts and other estate planning documents you are not paying for the documents themselves. The attorney, like the computer programs, has basic documents. You are paying for the attorney’s time to talk with you about your specific situation, then modify those basic documents to fit your situation. With the attorney you also get advice on how other investments such as your home, IRA accounts and life insurance policies should integrate with your estate planning documents.

Disclaimer This is a passive blog and the materials contained herein are provided for informational purposes only. Nothing contained in this blog should be interpreted as a solicitation of business and none of the information contained herein constitutes legal advice. The law is subject to change without notice, and the local laws of your residence may be different from the general information displayed on this blog. You should not rely on the information provided on this blog without first consulting an attorney. Contacting this website does not establish and attorney/client relationship between you and its publisher Christopher W. Matern. An attorney/client relationship can only be established with Christopher Matern by engaging in direct person-to-person contact with Christopher Matern. Christopher Matern does not intend to practice law in any jurisdiction in which he is not licensed.