Is Your Estate Plan Still Sitting in Your Inbox?
- Ashley Sharek
- Jun 27
- 3 min read
You have taken the first step. You created an estate plan. That is a great start.
The problem? If your plan is sitting unsigned in your email inbox or lost in the back of a kitchen drawer, it is not doing your family any good.
Even worse, if you used an online do-it-yourself form, your plan might not work when your loved ones need it the most. When it comes to protecting the people you love, a half-finished or one-size-fits-all plan just is not enough.
The Risks of an Incomplete or Unsigned Estate Plan
An estate plan only works when it is complete and legally executed. That means it needs to be signed, witnessed, and stored properly. A plan sitting in your inbox is no better than no plan at all.
If you pass away or become incapacitated and your documents are incomplete, your family may be forced to go through probate court or make difficult medical and financial decisions without guidance.
Why Online Templates Rarely Work for Pennsylvania Families
Online estate planning templates may seem convenient. However, these generic documents do not account for Pennsylvania laws, complex family situations, or unique asset structures. If you own a home, have children, or any significant savings, a one-size-fits-all plan can leave major gaps.
For example, many online wills fail to address how assets will be distributed if a beneficiary passes away before you. Others do not include powers of attorney or healthcare directives. These are critical documents that protect you during your lifetime, not just after death.
What Makes an Estate Plan Comprehensive
A complete estate plan includes more than just a will. It should reflect your values, your family’s needs, and your financial situation. Key components often include:
• A revocable living trust or will
• Durable financial power of attorney
• Healthcare power of attorney
• Advance healthcare directive or living will
• Guardianship nominations for minor children
• Clear instructions for asset distribution
This kind of planning ensures your wishes are honored, minimizes family conflict, and avoids unnecessary delays and costs in court.
Real-Life Scenarios: When Things Go Wrong
Imagine this: A mother leaves behind a will she created online, but never signed. Her children are left scrambling in probate court, unsure of what she wanted and unprotected from legal fees and delays.
Or consider a retired couple who thought they had everything covered, only to learn their do-it-yourself documents did not protect their home from Medicaid estate recovery. Now their children face losing the family house.
These situations are real, and they are avoidable.
How Entrusted Legacy Law Helps You Get It Right
At Entrusted Legacy Law, we believe estate planning should be simple, heart-centered, and tailored to your family’s unique needs. We do not use scare tactics or wear suits. We work with you to create a plan that gives you peace of mind and protects your loved ones.
We take the time to understand your story, explain your options, and walk you through every step. Our goal is to make sure your plan is more than just a document. We want it to actually work when your family needs it most.
Your Family Deserves More Than a Half-Finished Plan
You only pass away once. Make sure your estate plan is signed, complete, and ready to protect your loved ones when it counts.
Your legacy deserves more than a forgotten file in a junk drawer.
Schedule your free consultation today:👉 https://book.entrustedlegacy.law/#/introcall