Module #1 Introduction to Estate Planning Overview of the importance of estate planning, common myths and misconceptions, and goals of the course
Module #2 Understanding Wills Definition and purpose of a will, types of wills, and essential elements of a valid will
Module #3 Wills vs. Trusts Key differences between wills and trusts, advantages and disadvantages of each
Module #4 Estate Planning Documents Overview of common estate planning documents, including powers of attorney, living wills, and advance directives
Module #5 Probate:What It Is and How to Avoid It Explanation of the probate process, pros and cons, and strategies for minimizing or avoiding probate
Module #6 Understanding Estate Taxes Overview of federal and state estate taxes, exemptions, and strategies for minimizing tax liability
Module #7 Gathering Information for Estate Planning Identifying and organizing assets, debts, and other important information for estate planning purposes
Module #8 Determining Your Estate Planning Goals Identifying personal and financial goals, and how they impact estate planning decisions
Module #9 Choosing an Executor Selecting the right person to carry out the wishes outlined in your will
Module #10 Naming Beneficiaries Selecting beneficiaries for wills, trusts, and other estate planning documents
Module #11 Minor Children and Estate Planning Special considerations for parents, including guardianship and trusts for minor children
Module #12 Blended Families and Estate Planning Unique challenges and considerations for blended families, including step-children and prior marriages
Module #13 Special Needs Planning Estate planning strategies for individuals with special needs, including supplemental needs trusts
Module #14 Business Owners and Estate Planning Unique estate planning concerns for business owners, including buy-sell agreements and succession planning
Module #15 Real Estate and Estate Planning Estate planning considerations for real estate owners, including titling, transfer on death deeds, and homestead exemptions
Module #16 Digital Assets and Estate Planning Estate planning for digital assets, including social media, email, and cryptocurrency
Module #17 Updating and Reviewing Your Estate Plan Importance of regular review and updates to your estate plan, including changes in law, relationships, and assets
Module #18 Estate Planning for Same-Sex Couples Unique estate planning considerations for same-sex couples, including marriage, divorce, and inheritance rights
Module #19 International Estate Planning Estate planning considerations for individuals with international assets, including foreign property and tax implications
Module #20 Philanthropy and Estate Planning Incorporating charitable giving into your estate plan, including wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations
Module #21 Avoiding Family Conflicts Strategies for minimizing family conflicts and disputes in the estate planning process
Module #22 The Role of the Executor Responsibilities and duties of the executor, including probate, asset management, and tax returns
Module #23 Common Estate Planning Mistakes Common errors and oversights in estate planning, and how to avoid them
Module #24 Estate Planning for Unmarried Couples Unique estate planning considerations for unmarried couples, including cohabitation agreements and wills
Module #25 Course Wrap-Up & Conclusion Planning next steps in Estate Planning and Wills career
