Over the next 20 years, $84 trillion is expected to change hands in what’s being called The Great Wealth Transfer. It sounds like a windfall—but for families without an estate plan, it could be a disaster.
At Raulston & Associates, we’ve seen firsthand what happens when families aren’t prepared. Money tied up in probate, loved ones fighting in court, and legacies lost to taxes and legal fees. It doesn’t have to be that way—but the clock is ticking.
Big Dreams, No Documents
Here’s the reality: A majority of Americans say estate planning is important, yet more than half have no documents at all. No will. No trust. Not even a power of attorney or healthcare directive.
We worked with a family recently whose patriarch passed away unexpectedly. He owned property, investments, and a classic car collection—but no estate plan. His children spent nearly a year in probate court, racking up thousands in legal fees and watching family tensions rise. What should’ve been a celebration of his legacy turned into a legal nightmare.
What Happens Without a Plan?
If you die without a plan in place, your family may have to:
- Hire an attorney to navigate the probate process
- Wait months—or even years—for resolution
- Lose assets to legal fees, taxes, or creditors
- Face unnecessary stress during an already painful time
This isn’t just inconvenient—it’s heartbreaking. And entirely preventable.
A Plan Can Change Everything
Even a simple will and powers of attorney can spare your family a world of trouble. But if you want to avoid probate altogether and keep your affairs private, a properly funded trust is often the best route. (Emphasis on “funded.” An unfunded trust is just an expensive stack of paper.)
And don’t think estate planning is only for the ultra-wealthy. Modest estates benefit too—especially with rising healthcare costs, complex family dynamics, and looming tax law changes in 2025.
So, the question is: Are you ready for your part in The Great Wealth Transfer?
👉 Request a consultation with Raulston & Associates to start building your plan—before chaos takes the place of your legacy.