October is for estate planning: Start thinking about it, get a free kit and 'plant the first seed'

Photo by Imso Gabriel, Unsplash

Each year, October is designated National Estate Planning Awareness Month, highlighting individuals' need to outline financial and inheritance plans alongside future health decisions. A person doesn't have to be rich to need an estate plan, and although planning may take a bit of time, many resources are free and, once completed, offer peace of mind for individuals and families.

The ETV Endowment of South Carolina website has free resources and encourages everyone to take time to "Plant the First Seed" of their plan: "It is estimated that more than 120 million Americans do not have proper estate plans to protect themselves or their families in the event of sickness, accidents or untimely death. This costs many families wasted dollars and hours of hardship each year that could be minimized with proper planning. . . . No matter your age or income, now is a great time to get started on your plans."

Many Public Broadcasting Service affiliates, public universities, colleges and Cooperative Extension Service offices offer free planning tools with online discussions, attorney guidance, resources and tips to make the process less intimidating. For people who like pen and paper, some PBS stations will mail an estate planning kit to homes for free. Most sites emphasize that you don't have to be wealthy to need a plan, and once completed, people are glad they took the time.