If you have assets and liabilities, you should have an estate plan. Here's why:

• Estate planning give you the opportunity to make sure that those who depend on you have the resources they need to carry on
• You can minimize taxes, ensuring that your wealth goes to your heirs, and not the government
• You can ensure that your affairs are settled according to your wishes

Certain circumstances require special consideration:

Estate Planning Checklist:

• Up-to-date will, power of attorney and living will or advance directive to your physician
• Selected an executor for your estate
• Selected a guardian for minor children or other dependants
• Adequate funds to support dependants
• Funds available to pay off debts and obligations 
• Liquid assets to pay taxes and other costs of settling your estate 
• Specified your funeral wishes