Articles

Estate Planning: Why It Matters

People often assume that ‘estate planning’ is only necessary for those with significant wealth or complex finances. In reality, estate planning is an important step for everyone, no matter your income, age, or how much you own.

Estate planning is a normal and important part of planning for your future. It’s about making thoughtful decisions today to protect your loved ones, clarify your wishes, and feel confident about your financial future. And you dont have to navigate it alone.

What Estate Planning Really Means

Estate planning helps make sure your finances and personal wishes are handled the way you intend if something unexpected happens. This can include:

  • How your money and assets are distributed
  • Who can manage your finances if youre unable
  • Who can make healthcare decisions on your behalf
  • How loved ones are supported and protected

Even everyday assets, like your checking and savings accounts, retirement fund, or life insurance policy, benefit from proper planning and organization.

Why Estate Planning Isn’t Just for the Wealthy

Estate planning isn’t about how much you have; its about having a plan. Without one, important decisions may be left to the courts or governed by state law, which may not reflect your wishes.

Having a plan in place can:

  • Reduce stress and uncertainty for your loved ones
  • Help avoid unnecessary delays or legal complications
  • Ensure your assets are distributed according to your intentions
  • Provide clarity during difficult or unexpected situations

Estate planning is all about peace of mind. By taking steps today, you can feel confident knowing your finances and loved ones are protected.

NW Plus Credit Union partners with Legal Karma to bring you affordable and simple estate planning services.

If youre ready to start the conversation, the NW Plus team is always here to help. Visit our estate planning page to learn more and get started today.


Neither NW Plus CU nor Legal Karma are law firms nor are they attorneys. Neither NW Plus CU nor Legal Karma is a substitute for an attorney or law firm. Neither organization provides legal advice nor legal services. Any information provided is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. The use of the Wills and Trusts Site and Applications is not intended to create any attorney-client relationship, and your use of the Site and/or Applications does not and will not create an attorney-client relationship.

Never share your account number, passwords, answers to security questions, or other account information. We will never ask you for this type of information when we call or email you. If someone claiming to be a NW Plus CU representative asks for sensitive account information over the phone or in an email, end the conversation immediately, and call us at 425.297.1000 or come to one of our branches to report the incident.