It’s important to focus on conversations — talking with people in your life about what’s important to you, to make sure your wishes are understood and respected. We’ve heard from LGBTQ+ individuals that in addition to these important conversations, documentation of wishes — making sure they are written down and recognized — is an essential focus, too.

Estate planning is often associated with married couples and those who are wealthy. However, single parents who are solely responsible for their children’s well-being should also prioritize estate planning. As a parent, you likely care deeply about your child’s future. Estate planning is a phenomenal way to proactively plan for the future and the various unknowns that come with it.

Losing a spouse is like losing half of who you are. This tragic event comes with not only adjusting to a life without your loved one but also navigating the unfamiliar territory of finances. This can be especially true for women who have been accustomed to leaving financial matters to their husbands. There are many considerations to keep in mind when navigating this new territory.

According to one estimate, about a quarter of all marriages and nearly two-thirds (63%) of remarriages involve stepchildren. No matter how loving and successful, such arrangements often pose unique personal and financial challenges that may only intensify as wealth transfers from one generation to the next. For these reasons, careful estate planning, while highly recommended for any family, is especially vital for blended ones.

If you are asking What’s the cheapest way to do a living will you’re already doing one of the most loving things you can for your family. The good news is, you do not have to spend a lot. With the rise of digital estate planning tools, creating a living will is easier, faster, and far more affordable than ever before.

If you’re wondering what the 7 steps in the estate planning process are, you’re not alone. Thousands of people are searching for answers every day, looking for simple and straight-forward estate planning tools and free estate planning advice. Let’s walk through the 7 steps of estate planning, simplified for families like yours.