While it often makes sense to keep your estate plan private, too much secrecy can create problems. If the right people don’t know they’ve been named—or don’t know where to find your documents—your plan may lead to confusion, delays, or even conflict.
The key is balance. The trick is knowing whom to tell, what to share, when to tell them, why it matters, and how to communicate it effectively. Your personal representative, trustee, and agents under your powers of attorney should at least be aware of their roles and how to access what they need when the time comes. You may want to share your plan with loved ones who expect an inheritance—especially if excluding them, treating them differently, or providing non-estate gifts.
A thoughtful approach protects your privacy while ensuring your plan works. Schedule an appointment to get guidance on who should know what—and when.
