Your world changes once you've had or adopted a child. Now your priorities revolve around keeping them safe, healthy, and happy. While much of this involves basic logistics, like securing education and putting food on the table, it also involves thinking ahead.

At Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC, we provide estate planning for new parents in Tennessee, helping them ensure all of their wishes regarding their children are honored. Below, we offer a basic guide on a few estate planning essentials that every new parent can start with. 

Understanding the Need for Estate Planning as a New Parent

New parents need estate planning to ensure their child's care and financial support if something unexpected happens. A clear plan identifies guardians, manages assets responsibly with the new family members in place, and reduces uncertainty for all loved ones. It also helps you maintain control over key decisions that protect your child's long-term well-being and your future family stability.

Five Estate Planning Essentials for New Parents in Tennessee

Becoming a parent means making decisions that protect your child's future. These key estate planning steps help ensure your wishes are followed and your child is cared for, no matter what happens.

1. Guardianship Designation

Choosing a guardian is an important decision that many parents don't want to think about. A guardianship designation names the person who will care for your child if you cannot. This document helps prevent family disputes and gives the court clear guidance about your preferences.

When selecting a guardian, consider their values, stability, health, and relationship with your child. It's also wise to name an alternate guardian in case your first choice is unable to serve. Putting this decision in writing provides clarity and security for your child's future.

2. Trust Formation

Creating a trust allows you to manage how and when your child receives your assets. A trust can hold life insurance proceeds, savings, and other types of property, with the funds being distributed for your child's needs rather than all at once, if that's what you choose. You can also appoint a trustee who will manage the assets according to your instructions.

You may include guidelines on using the trust for education expenses, healthcare, or general support. Trusts can also help you avoid probate, while offering your family greater privacy. For many parents, trusts offer a structured, reliable way to protect their child's long-term financial stability.

3. Living Will Revisions

Estate planning for new parents in Tennessee often focuses on updating beneficiary designations. For example, you should review your life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and other assets to confirm that they'll pass according to your wishes. You may choose to include your new child in your documents or make other revisions.

4. Life Insurance

Life insurance provides financial support for your child if you pass away unexpectedly. Parents should evaluate their coverage amounts to ensure they meet their new future needs, including daily expenses, childcare, and education. Selecting the right policy helps you create stability and ensures your family has the resources needed during difficult circumstances.

5. Power of Attorney

A power of attorney enables another individual to make legal or financial decisions for you if you cannot do so yourself. For new parents, this ensures bills are paid, accounts are managed, and essential responsibilities continue smoothly. Choosing a reliable agent helps protect your family's daily and long-term needs, ensuring minor child protection regardless of the circumstances.

Do You Need Help Securing Your Child's Future?

To learn more about estate planning for new parents in Tennessee, get in touch with Johannesmeyer & Sawyer, PLLC, via phone at (615) 314-4420 or via form today to schedule a consultation.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ):

What is the most important step in estate planning for new parents?
The most important step is a Guardianship Designation, which legally names the person who will care for your child if you cannot. This document prevents family disputes and provides clear guidance to the court.

How can I manage my child's inheritance and assets?
You can create a Trust Formation to manage how and when your child receives your assets, such as life insurance proceeds or savings. You can also appoint a trustee to manage the funds according to your instructions.

Besides a guardian, what other documents should new parents focus on?
New parents should focus on updating beneficiary designations on life insurance and retirement accounts, securing adequate Life Insurance for financial support, and establishing a Power of Attorney to ensure bills are paid and accounts are managed if you are incapacitated.