Show You Care With Smart Planning

WHEN I assigned an article on estate planning for our February issue, I wasn't thinking about wrapping it into a Valentine's Day theme; it's not a topic that sparks thoughts of romance.

But as I read the draft, it occurred to me that putting together a solid estate plan is one of the most loving things you can do for the people you care about.

If you don't draw up a will to outline where you want your assets to go after you die, state laws will determine how your property is divided, leaving your family to contend with the court processes-and potentially creating tension and hurt feelings among them. If you don't have a living will in place, your loved ones may have to make heart-wrenching decisions about your end-of-life care.

The article that starts on page 40 runs through the basics of estate planning and offers tips tailored for those in specific circumstances, too, including singles, childless couples, unmarried partners and parents who have children with disabilities.