Pennsylvania Investment Observer

Planning for What's Next

by Daniel J. Nestlerode

Our lives are spent in accumulation. We come into this world with nothing but the love and care of our parents. If we are successful we grow in stature, acquire knowledge, experience and lots of stuff. We also, if we are fortunate, have the opportunity to distill our knowledge, and that of others, with our experience to become blessed with wisdom. Yet, some of the smartest among us have not used their knowledge to plan for what is next. I've heard that sixty percent of lawyers don't have a Will.

Life is lived in chapters, much like those in a novel. We spend a great deal of time, resources and energy raising a family. Eventually we send the kids off to college and then onto their own course in life. If you are like me, that course hopefully includes some grandchildren. Nevertheless, after the kids are grown and have left the nest, we redirect our attention to our own retirement and towards making a difference with our family and, if we have surplus, those causes and concerns we hold dear to our hearts. If you have accumulated assets, then you should be planning for what's next.

Whatever you are doing in life, if you have accumulated assets, you should have a Will to provide for the disposition of these assets upon your demise. Your Will is the last act you get to direct in life. It tells how you want your assets to be distributed. It tells everyone what was important to you. It also allows you to continue making a difference in the world long after you have passed on.

In drafting my Will, I received great assistance from my attorney who provided me with a detailed workbook so that I could detail my assets and desires in a way that my attorney could actually write my last Will and testament. I offer to my readers, this workbook so that you can prepare your family and asset information as well as any charitable concerns you have for your attorney in the preparation of your Will. The workbook will allow you to organize your thoughts and assets in such a way that you don't forget those people and institutions and causes that are of value to you that you want to benefit after you are no longer here. Just drop me a note (se the address below) and request the Will Workbook. You are under no obligation.

The alternative to you preparing your Will with your attorney is to have the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania distribute your assets according to law. Within the law there is no provision for making bequests to those churches, charities, and other institutions or causes you believe are worthy. Further, the law also overlooks particular circumstances for which you might want to provide some bequest

Planning for what is next is not easy. It is one of the more difficult exercises that I have undertaken. Yet it is one that allows me peace of mind, knowing that I have my life ordered well enough that my heirs will know how to fulfill my last wishes. Your Will is the last thing you get to do here on Earth. Don't miss it.

Daniel J. Nestlerode is an investment advisor with over forty years experience. He can be reached at danielj@nestlerode.com.

top of page | article archive

Home | About Nestlerode & Loy | Company News
Traditional Brokerage | Discount Brokerage | Investment Management
Investment Research |  Investment Articles

Privacy Policy

1-800-922-7492
Contact Nestlerode & Loy

©1997-2007 Nestlerode & Loy, Inc.