Estate planning is a good idea for anyone as they get older, but it can be challenging to remember everything to be done. It can be easy to make mistakes during the process. Here are some of the things you should avoid doing while you're planning your estate. 

Designating a Loved One as Executor

It may seem instinctual to designate your eldest child or spouse to be your executor, but that might not be the best thing to do. Your family will be grieving when you pass away, and might not want the added responsibility of seeing to your estate and taking on executor duties. It may be better to ask an estate planning attorney to perform this role for you; they have experience in this arena and can do what needs to be done in an impartial manner so that your family is free to grieve.

Not Making Multiple Beneficiaries

If you have filled out life insurance policies and other documents and only named one beneficiary, you may assume that the listed beneficiary will know your wishes and divide any proceeds equally. However, that could be setting your family up for arguments in the future about who deserves what. Instead, take the time to name each of the people that you want to benefit from any insurance policies or bank accounts that you own.

Not Discussing Your Estate Planning Activities

You are free to divide your assets as you deem necessary, but it is important that you take the time to talk with friends and family about your plans. Allow them to ask questions, and explain why you've made the choices you've made. This will prepare them for whatever you choose to do, and will reduce the likelihood that there will be any fighting over certain assets and belongings after you've passed on. 

It is also important to talk about your estate planning so that your family is aware of your assets and how to find important documents such as your will. Be sure at least one person knows where to find all your important financial and estate planning documents when they are needed.

Now that you know some of the things you shouldn't do when planning your estate, work with an estate planning attorney (such as Robert Stone Attorney at Law) to ensure that your final wishes will be respected. Remember to update estate planning documents often to reflect any changes so that your family avoids problems in the future.