Why Estate Planning Is the Next Smart Step After Tax Day
Every year, Tax Day rolls around like clockwork — bringing with it a mix of paperwork and (hopefully) refunds. And while taxes may not be anyone’s favorite topic, they do serve as a powerful reminder of something bigger: the importance of getting our financial and legal houses in order.
Just like filing your taxes, estate planning is one of those “adulting” tasks we tend to put off. It's not always fun to think about what happens after we're gone, or what might happen if we become seriously ill or injured. But just like the IRS won’t wait forever, life won’t either.
Here’s the good news:
Estate planning doesn’t have to be scary, and it certainly doesn’t have to be done all at once. It just starts with a few simple steps — and Tax Day is a great time to take them.
3 Ways Tax Season Can Nudge You Toward an Estate Plan:
1. You're already gathering financial information.
W-2s, 1099s, retirement account statements — if you're already knee-deep in financial paperwork, why not take it a step further? These are the same documents your estate planner needs to help you create a comprehensive plan.
2. You’re thinking about your future (and maybe your family's).
As you review your income and expenses, you might start thinking about long-term goals: college savings, retirement, caring for aging parents. Estate planning brings those goals into focus and gives you a framework for protecting what matters most.
3. You want to reduce stress — for yourself and your loved ones.
Let’s be real: few things are more stressful than scrambling to find paperwork or make big decisions under pressure. A good estate plan gives your family clarity and peace of mind, no matter what the future holds.
A Personal Note
When I think about estate planning, I think about love in action. I think about the single mom who set up guardianship so her kids would be protected, or the business owner who put plans in place to support her team if something happened to her. These aren’t just legal documents — they’re expressions of care and intention.
So, if you’ve filed your taxes (or even if you’ve filed for an extension — no judgment here!), consider taking the next step. Let Tax Day be the nudge you need to finally schedule that estate planning appointment.
You’ve already done one hard thing. You can do this, too. And I’m here to help! Schedule a complimentary consultation today.
This article is a service of Cedar Counsel. We don’t just draft documents; we ensure you make informed and empowered decisions about life and death, for yourself and the people you love.