
Without an Estate Plan, the Government Makes Your Decisions for You
Most people wouldn’t trust politicians to make decisions about their daily lives. Yet, every year, thousands of Americans unknowingly do just that when they die without an estate plan. With all that is going on now around us, put your wishes in writing and make them official.
It’s called dying intestate, and it means the government—not you—will decide what happens to everything you own, who will care for your minor children, and how your legacy unfolds. Think about that for a moment. You work hard, you pay taxes, you save, you build a life—and then, without a legally valid will or estate plan including documents like trusts, the laws and courts take over. They decide who gets your home, your bank accounts, and even your cherished family heirlooms.
The Government’s Plan for You
If you don’t create your own estate plan, your state has one for you. Here’s what happens:
- The courts take control—Your assets are frozen while a judge follows generic state laws to distribute them. This can take months or even years.
- Your minor children’s fate is left to strangers—If you have young kids and haven’t named a guardian, a court—not you—will pick one. It might not be the person you’d choose.
- Unintended heirs could inherit everything—Think your assets will automatically go to your spouse or children? Not necessarily. In blended families, half could go to a parent from a previous marriage, an estranged relative, or even someone you’ve never met.
- The state takes a cut—Probate court is expensive. Legal fees and court costs eat into what you hoped to pass down. In some cases, the government can even seize assets when no clear heirs exist.
It’s a bureaucratic nightmare. And yet, according to surveys, only one in three Americans has a legally valid will. That means two out of three people are letting politicians make their most personal, life-defining decisions.
This Isn’t Just for the Rich
Many believe estate planning is only for the wealthy. That’s a dangerous myth. Whether you have a house, a retirement account, or even just a checking account, you need an estate plan. A will ensures your wishes are followed. A power of attorney ensures someone you trust—not the courts—can handle your affairs if you become incapacitated. A living trust can keep your family out of probate court entirely.
And forget what you’ve heard about trusts being only for millionaires. Trusts are now affordable. Don’t let other companies take you for hundreds or even thousands of dollars when you can create a legally valid trust at a fraction of the cost. A trust helps you pass on your assets smoothly, avoid unnecessary legal fees, and protect your family’s future.
Gentreo Grows With You
Estate planning isn’t a one-time event—it’s a lifelong necessity. Your plan should evolve as you build your family, grow your wealth, and experience life’s major milestones. That’s why Gentreo isn’t just about creating documents—it’s about making sure your estate plan stays up to date. Whether you get married, buy a house, have children, or retire, your plan should reflect your wishes at every stage.
At Gentreo, we believe estate planning is for everyone. Our digital tools make it possible to complete a will, power of attorney, and trust in minutes—without expensive lawyer fees. And our secure digital vault ensures your documents are accessible when needed.
Take Control—Before It’s Too Late
Estate planning isn’t about what you have—it’s about who decides. Do you want to control your legacy, or will you leave it to politicians and the courts?
The choices are yours. Make your choices and make them known.
Don’t wait until it’s too late; start your estate planning journey with Gentreo today. By doing so, you’ll not only protect your loved ones but also gain the peace of mind that comes with knowing your legacy is secure. Click HERE to join now.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified attorney or estate planning professional for personalized guidance.