It is very important for Iowans, especially aging Iowans, to have their legal affairs in order, and to then review such plans periodically. Planning and memorializing now your own financial choices and health care decisions in the event of future contingencies ensures that your wishes are complied with, and in many cases reduces the burden on family and loved ones. When your needs and wishes are put in writing, it greatly reduces the risk that those closest to you will argue

Estate planning is an important part of being a responsible citizen, but many things can and do go wrong. The biggest estate planning misstate is failure to plan. The second most common mistake is failure to communicate the estate terms to the most relevant people, at a minimum the executor, trustee, and your heirs. You should be clear not only about the content of your estate documents, but also the location of all important papers. Failing to plan for the end of your life o

* Be practical about estate planning for kid’s sake. Make sure things like a will, living will, estate plan and trusts, together with life insurance are up to date. A list of all of your assets, including account numbers and passwords can save tons of time and heartache for those you leave behind. * Be cheap and pre-plan for after death expenses. Most things, including funeral and burial expenses are cheaper if you competitively shop and contract for them (even possibly pr

Estate Executors can make mistakes. They are human and often times lack any exprience as an executor. Here are the common mistakes that estate executors make: 1. Pay Bills too quickly. 2. Investing the Estate's assets in the Market. 3. Troubling Real Estate Transactions 4. Losing track of Assets like cash, art or heirlooms. The Attorneys at the Iowa law firm of Whitaker Hagenow & Gustoff have experience in probate issues and can help Iowa executors with avoiding these c