Don’t Wait: The Hidden Costs of Delaying Your Estate Plan

Duana Boswell-Loechel Avatar

After our recent article on protecting your legacy, many readers have reached out with questions about timing. The most common question? “When should I start my estate planning?” The answer is simple: now. Here’s why waiting could cost you more than you think.

The Real Cost of Procrastination

Many people assume estate planning is expensive, but the truth is that not having a plan can be far more costly. Consider these real scenarios:

Sarah’s Story*: When Sarah passed away unexpectedly at 45 without a will, her family spent $15,000 in legal fees and two years in probate court just to settle her modest $200,000 estate. Her children received significantly less than intended, and family relationships were strained by the lengthy legal process.

The Martinez Family*: When both parents were hospitalized following a car accident, their adult children couldn’t access bank accounts or make medical decisions without costly emergency guardianship proceedings that took weeks to complete.

What Delays Really Cost

Financial Expenses

  • Probate costs: Can range from 3-8% of your estate’s value
  • Emergency guardianship: Often costs $5,000-$15,000 in urgent situations
  • Tax penalties: Poor planning can trigger unnecessary estate and gift taxes
  • Lost opportunities: Delayed planning means missing tax-saving strategies

Emotional Toll

  • Family conflict: Unclear wishes often lead to disputes among loved ones
  • Stress during crisis: Making decisions under pressure without guidance
  • Regret: Knowing you could have prevented family hardship

Time Costs

  • Probate delays: Can take 6 months to 2 years to complete
  • Court proceedings: Multiple hearings and legal appointments
  • Administrative burden: Endless paperwork for unprepared families

Common Myths That Keep People Waiting

“I’m too young”: Accidents and illnesses don’t discriminate by age. Anyone over 18 needs basic estate planning documents.

“I don’t have enough assets”: Even modest estates benefit from planning. It’s about protecting what you have, regardless of the amount.

“It’s too complicated”: Modern estate planning can be straightforward with the right attorney. Many documents can be prepared efficiently.

“I’ll do it later”: Tomorrow isn’t guaranteed. The best time to plan was yesterday; the second-best time is today.

June Special: Take Action Now

Understanding that cost concerns often delay planning, Boswell Law Firm is offering a special opportunity this month. Schedule your comprehensive estate planning consultation in June and receive $250 off your estate planning package.

This discount makes getting started even more affordable and removes one of the biggest barriers to protecting your family’s future.

What’s Included in Your Planning Package

A complete estate planning package typically includes:

  • Comprehensive consultation to understand your unique needs
  • Will preparation with guardian nominations for minor children
  • Durable Power of Attorney for financial matters
  • Medical Power of Attorney for healthcare decisions
  • Healthcare Directive outlining treatment preferences
  • Mental Health Directive for psychological treatment decisions
  • HIPAA Authorization for medical information access

The Peace of Mind Factor

“The relief our clients feel after completing their estate plan is immediate,” says Board Certified attorney Duana Boswell-Loechel. “They know their families are protected, their wishes will be honored, and their loved ones won’t face unnecessary legal battles during already difficult times.”

With Boswell Law Firm’s flat-rate fee structure, you’ll know exactly what your estate planning will cost upfront—no surprise bills or hourly charges that can spiral out of control.

Don’t Let Another Month Pass

Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone—it’s about protecting your family right now. Whether you’re 25 or 75, married or single, wealthy or just getting started, you need a plan.

The June discount offer is limited and designed to help you take that crucial first step. Your family’s future depends on the decisions you make today.

Remember: the cost of planning is always less than the cost of not planning. Take advantage of this special offer and give your family the gift of security and peace of mind.

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