Having children changes everything about your estate plan. The stakes are higher, the documents are more specific, and the window for "I'll get to it eventually" gets much shorter.
The most critical document for parents. Names who would raise your children and who handles your estate. Without one, a judge decides.
Without a trust, assets for minors go to a court account until age 18 or 21, then paid as a lump sum. A trust lets you set ages, restrictions, and who manages the funds.
Term life insurance is typically the right tool for parents — affordable coverage that replaces your income and protects your family's financial future. Both parents need coverage.
Authorizes someone to manage your finances if you become incapacitated. Covers the "not dead but can't act" scenario that many parents overlook.
Names who makes medical decisions on your behalf and documents your end-of-life wishes.
Most parents default to who they love most — a sibling, a best friend. But the question isn't just who would love your children. It's who is practically able to take them in, raise them with your values, and manage the financial responsibility that comes with it.
Consider: Do they have the capacity? The space? A stable home? Similar values for education and upbringing? What happens if the primary guardian predeceases you?
Name a primary guardian and a backup. Have the conversation with both of them. And write a letter of instruction — not legally binding, but enormously valuable — explaining your wishes for your children's upbringing.
Never name minor children as direct beneficiaries of retirement accounts or life insurance. Children can't legally receive a direct inheritance. Without a trust in place, a court appoints a guardian of the property — a bureaucratic, expensive process.
Instead, name your trust as the contingent beneficiary, or your spouse as primary and your trust as contingent.
After the birth or adoption of each child. Every 3–5 years. After any significant change in assets, your guardian's circumstances, or your family structure.
Most families with significant assets have never organized their estate in one place. Answer 7 quick questions and find out exactly where you stand — and what's putting your legacy at risk.
Do you have an up-to-date will?
Most people don't.
Can your family find your documents in an emergency?
Often the answer is no.
Do your advisors know each other?
Siloed advisors cost estates millions.
Stories
Estate planning isn't just about wealth — it's about clarity, protection, and the peace of knowing your family is cared for.
“We'd been putting this off for years. Golden Wealth made it approachable — we organized our entire estate in a weekend. Now our kids know exactly what's protected and why.”
Katherine & David Merritt
Two children · Portland, OR
“My attorney and accountant can finally see exactly what they need without me playing messenger. It's changed how we manage our family's financial picture entirely.”
Robert Ashford
Retired executive · Scottsdale, AZ
“After losing my father with no plan in place, I swore I'd protect my own family differently. Golden Wealth gave me the structure and confidence to finally do it right.”
Sarah Chen-Williams
Three generations · San Francisco, CA