When it comes to planning for the future, thinking ahead about who will take care of our families, our homes, and our savings is so important. For families in Stevenage, family-run business A R K Lasting Powers & Wills offers services that make this process easier. Their professional team helps people feel confident that everything’s in place for their loved ones. Here, we explore how A R K supports local families and provide you with some top tips on estate planning, along with common mistakes to avoid.
Why Estate Planning Matters
Estate planning can seem complicated, but it’s really about creating peace of mind for the future. John Greenall from A R K explains, “Our goal is to make sure families in Stevenage know their estate planning is sorted, so they don’t have to worry about what happens if something unexpected occurs. It’s about securing a legacy that reflects their wishes.”
A good estate plan typically includes Wills, sometimes including trusts, and details on what should happen with your finances and possessions. Without a solid plan, your family may face difficulties, delays, and even conflicts. So, planning ahead helps avoid these issues, and A R K’s experts are here to make the whole process smooth and stress-free.
Five Top Tips for Estate Planning
Here are some essential tips from Karen Greenall, the expert at A R K to help families in Stevenage make the best choices for their futures:
1. Start Early
Don’t wait until you’re older to start thinking about estate planning. The earlier you start, the easier it is to make adjustments as life changes. “Life can be unpredictable,” says Karen. “Starting early means you can adapt your plans over time, giving you more control over your family’s future.”
2. Choose Your Executor Wisely
An executor is the person who will make sure your wishes are followed, so it’s important to pick someone reliable and trustworthy. Often, people choose a family member, but it’s crucial to pick someone who understands the responsibility involved. A R K also probate support to make things simpler for your executors.
3. Consider a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)
An LPA is a document that gives someone you trust the power to make decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to. This can include decisions about your finances and your health. In Stevenage, A R K’s team regularly helps families set up LPAs, as they provide reassurance in case of accidents or illness.
4. Review and Update Regularly
It’s easy to forget that estate plans need updating over time. Major life changes—like having children, buying a home, or retiring—are all good times to revisit your plan. A R K suggests checking your documents every three to five years.
5. Talk Openly with Family Members
One of the best things you can do is communicate your plans with your loved ones. This reduces misunderstandings and ensures everyone knows what to expect. Karen advises, “Having these conversations early can prevent any confusion or upset later on. At A R K, we encourage families in Stevenage to make estate planning a family discussion.”
Common Estate Planning Mistakes
Even with great advice, mistakes can happen. Here are three common errors people often make in estate planning—and how to avoid them.
1. Not Having a Will
Believe it or not, many people in the UK still don’t have a Will. Without a Will, your estate may not be distributed as you’d like. John Greenall notes, “A Will is the foundation of any estate plan, and it’s something we help people create every day in Stevenage and the surrounding towns and villages. It’s the only way to make sure your wishes are legally recognised.”
2. Failing to Appoint a Power of Attorney
A surprising number of people overlook appointing a power of attorney, which can lead to complications if they’re unable to make decisions for themselves. Without an LPA, even close family members may struggle to help with finances or health decisions. A R K’s Stevenage team sees this as a top priority for many families.
3. Not Updating the Plan Over Time
Life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of children can impact your estate. Not updating your estate plan can lead to complications. “We see people forgetting to adjust their estate plans after big life changes,” says John Greenall. “That’s why we always remind our clients to keep their plans current.”
How A R K Lasting Powers & Wills in Stevenage Can Help
A R K in Stevenage offers a range of services that cover everything from setting up a Will to creating LPAs and Will trusts. Their team understands the unique needs of Stevenage families and brings years of expertise to help clients make the best decisions. They also offer a free consultation, so you can start the planning process without any pressure.
Karen Greenall shares, “We want families in Stevenage to feel they’re in safe hands. Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it’s simply about taking a few straightforward steps to protect what matters most.”
Why Choose A R K?
A R K is a Stevenage based Company offering tailored services and they understand the specific needs of the community. Whether it’s securing your family’s future or preparing for life’s unexpected events, A R K provides friendly and professional support every step of the way.
By choosing estate planning services in Stevenage with A R K, you’ll gain the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices for your loved ones. With their expertise, estate planning becomes a manageable, rewarding process, ensuring your family is taken care of for years to come.
Planning for the future may feel like a big step, but with A R K’s expert guidance, families in Stevenage can move forward with confidence and peace of mind. If you’re ready to start your journey with estate planning, A R K is here to help you every step of the way.
