While picking up your third cup of double caffeinated coffee before lunch, you might have heard words like “estate plan”, “wills”, or “probate” floating around.

And when you realize the people who are saying those words and getting closer to your own age, you may realize it’s time to not ignore them anymore.

Of course I don’t know your specific situation. You may have avoided writing a will because you don’t want to think of death, feel like you have nothing worth leaving.

Or maybe you just don’t know where to start.

And just because Taylor Swift’s Shake It Off is all about ignoring the haters, I can promise estate planning is one thing you shouldn’t ignore.

Especially since this can have serious consequences for you and your loved ones the longer you put it off.

Two women sitting on a bed, one adjusting a cassette player while the other eats popcorn from a blue bowl. The setting is casual with a mix of vintage and modern items around. A magazine and bowls with small, colorful items are also visible.

Why Estate Planning is Important

Many people put off estate planning, thinking it’s only for the rich or elderly. But the truth is, estate planning is important for everyone, regardless of your age or how much money you have in the bank.

One of the main reasons estate planning is important is that it allows you to have control over what happens to your assets and belongings after you pass away. Without an estate plan in place, state laws will determine how your property is distributed, which may not align with your wishes.

Estate planning also includes creating documents such as a will, power of attorney, and healthcare directives. These documents ensure that your wishes are carried out in case something happens to you and you are unable to make decisions for yourself.

In short: If you have a bank account, a home, or a family, you need a plan.

In true Swiftie fashion, let’s break this down Taylor-style—because when it comes to your legacy, you should be the one calling the shots.

A smiling person with braided hair and glasses wears wireless earbuds, holding a phone and gesturing cheerfully while sitting at a table with a laptop, pen, and AirPods case in a well-lit room.

1. Why People “Shake Off” Estate Planning

Like Taylor moving on from negativity, many people avoid estate planning for these reasons:

“I’m too young.” (So was Taylor when she started building her empire—starting early is key!)
“I don’t have enough assets.” (If you have anything—a car, savings, even social media accounts—you have an estate.)
“It’s too complicated.” (So was re-recording her albums, but she took control—you can too!)

2. The Consequences of Not Having an Estate Plan

Expensive fees: Without a will, your estate will likely go through probate, which can cost your family thousands of dollars (or more).
Family disputes: Without a clear plan in place, family members may argue over who gets what, leading to potential rifts and legal battles.
Lack of control: State laws will determine who inherits your assets and makes decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

So, what happens when you don’t plan?

The government controls your assets. Dying without a will means the court decides who gets what—without your input.
Family feuds (Think Bad Blood but in real life.) No clear plan? Expect disputes over money, property, and guardianship (if you have children).
Higher taxes & legal fees. Without the right tools, more of your estate could go to Uncle Sam instead of your loved ones.

💡 Real-Life Examples:

Aretha Franklin & Prince: Both music icons passed away without wills, leading to years of legal battles and millions lost in taxes and court fees.
Taylor’s Re-Recordings: If she hadn’t taken control of her music, someone else would still own her legacy. Don’t let that happen to your estate!

3. Estate Planning the Taylor Swift Way: Take Control of Your Legacy

Taylor reclaimed her music, and you should reclaim your own life and belongings. Here’s how:

🎶 1. Write Your Own Will (Your Version, Not the Court’s Version)

Just like Taylor’s Taylor’s Version albums, you want your version of your legacy—not the state’s.
A will ensures your assets go where you want them to and names guardians for your children (if you have any), and any other wishes you may have for those you love and the belongings you’ve acquired through your life.

🎶 2. Trusts: The Ultimate Protection

Think of a trust like owning your masters—it keeps your assets protected from unnecessary taxes and legal battles.
Bonus: Trusts can prevent probate (the long and expensive legal process of dividing assets).

🎶 3. Power of Attorney & Healthcare Directives

If you’re unable to make important medical decisions, who’s in charge?
These documents ensure someone you trust makes financial and medical decisions for you—not a random court-appointed stranger.

4. Steps to Get Started (Even If You Feel Overwhelmed)

Just like Taylor builds her albums one song at a time, you can build your estate plan step by step:

✔ Start with a Will. List what you have and decide who gets what.
✔ Add a Trust if needed. Protect bigger assets and avoid probate.
✔ Name Beneficiaries. Bank accounts, life insurance, and retirement plans need updated beneficiary forms.
✔ Choose a Power of Attorney. Pick someone to handle your finances and medical decisions if needed.
✔ Review & Update Regularly. Just like Taylor tweaks her setlist for every tour, review your plan every few years or after major life events.

Two people in suits stand closely in a desert landscape, with one in a light purple suit jacket and the other in a blue suit. They are holding hands and sharing a tender moment, surrounded by cacti and desert shrubs.

FAQs: Estate Planning, Swiftie Style

❓ What happens if I don’t have an estate plan?
The court takes over, decides who gets what, and your family may have to fight for their share—like a messy Reputation era breakup.

❓ Can I DIY my estate plan?
Some online templates exist, but they don’t cover everything. Would Taylor let someone else write her lyrics? Get a professional.

❓ How often should I update my plan?
Every 3-5 years or after big life changes (marriage, kids, new assets). Think of it like refreshing your playlist—outdated plans can cause issues.

A person in a white shirt and beige vest writes on documents next to an open laptop, seated at a desk with blurred background.

Final Thoughts

Taylor doesn’t let others control her music, and you shouldn’t let courts control your legacy.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for everyone who cares about their loved ones.

So take some inspiration from Taylor and start building your plan today.

Please keep in mind that estate planning is an ongoing process and should be regularly reviewed and updated as needed.

With a solid plan in place, you can have peace of mind knowing that your wishes will be carried out and your loved ones will be taken care of after you’re gone.

So, don’t wait until it’s too late. You can start building your estate plan now for a smoother future.

And remember, just like Taylor Swift creates her music one note at a time, you can build your estate plan one step at a time too.

All it takes is the first step to get started. So what are you waiting for? Get planning, Swiftie style!

Tell us what’s happening, and we’ll contact you soon.