One of the most common goals in estate planning is having a plan in place for your children. It’s always the big question of “What happens to my kids when I’m gone?” that can truly worry all parents. The best part about an estate plan is that you can answer that question yourself and feel secure in your child’s future. One of the ways that you can do this is by making sure that you choose a guardian who you can trust with your child fully.

Now, just to be clear, if your spouse is alive, chances are that they will get custody of your child. It’s only in the situation wherein both you and your spouse pass away while your child is still a minor that the person you name will get guardianship. This is particularly why I think it’s important to choose the best person in your life to take on that responsibility. So how do you find the right person?

What If No One Feels “Perfect”? (Totally Normal)

It’s definitely impossible to find someone who you’re sure will raise your child exactly the way you want. There’s simply too much to think about when you’re choosing the “perfect” person. This is why we give you the option to name multiple people as guardians. Having multiple guardians ensures that your child is safe and secure no matter what. It also gives you the peace of mind to know that the responsibility is being shared by multiple people who are ready to give your child the love and support they need.

 

Three Things to Keep in Mind

Parenting Skills

Not everyone can handle suddenly having another human being to take care of. It would definitely be preferred if the person you choose is someone you know can raise a child and has the proper parenting skills. It’s not just a big change for your kid, it’s gonna be a big change for their guardian too. It’s better to make sure that whoever you do choose is not just someone who can do it but is someone who is willing to do it.

Location

Speaking of big changes, location is tricky because thinking of a good person you trust and then realizing they live a hundred miles away can definitely happen. Make sure to keep your options close if possible. One thing to note is that it would be better to, at the very least, choose someone who is in the country.

Finances

Financial struggle is a huge burden and it wouldn’t be the best option to trust your kid with someone who already has too much on their plate. It’s also best to make sure that they’re stable enough to be able to take responsibility for another human being.

 

Big Decisions Take Time

This is not one of those decisions where you can just sleep on it and have an answer by tomorrow morning. Estate planning requires you to be careful and deliberate in the choices you make, especially choices like a Guardian for your minor children, because it will affect the people in your life. Make sure that whatever choice you make and whoever you choose to take care of your child should anything unfortunate happen will be the choice that will let you rest well and not cause you any worries.

These decisions might be tough but estate planning doesn’t have to be. We’re here to help you feel secured in the future that you have planned. Ready to get started? Call our office today to schedule a one-on-one consultation.