Estate Planning for New Parents: Protecting Your Children’s Future

Becoming a parent is life-changing—and so is planning for your child’s future. If you’ve recently welcomed a baby or adopted a child, it’s time to consider how estate planning can protect your family if the unexpected happens.

At Minter & Pollak, LC, we help new parents like you create peace of mind through clear, customized legal plans.

Why New Parents Need an Estate Plan

If something were to happen to you or your child’s other parent, would your wishes be known? Without an estate plan:

• The court may choose a guardian for your child.
• Your assets may not be distributed the way you intend.
• Your child could inherit everything at 18, regardless of maturity.

Estate planning ensures you make the decisions—not the court.

6 Key Estate Planning Tools for New Parents

1. Name a Guardian for Your Child

Appoint someone you trust to care for your child if you’re no longer able to. This decision is often the most important—and the most overlooked.

✅ Tip: Always name a backup guardian in case your first choice is unavailable.

2. Create a Will

A will allows you to:

• Legally name a guardian
• Specify who inherits your assets
• Appoint an executor to carry out your wishes

In Kansas, a will must follow state law to be valid. A DIY document may not hold up in court.

3. Establish a Trust for Your Child

Trusts allow you to:

• Avoid probate
• Manage your child’s inheritance
• Appoint a trustee to oversee funds until your child reaches an appropriate age

⚖️ Common option: A revocable living trust lets you stay in control during your lifetime and provides seamless transition after.

4. Durable Power of Attorney & Health Care Directive

These documents appoint someone you trust to make financial and medical decisions if you become incapacitated.

5. Purchase Life Insurance

Life insurance provides crucial financial support for your child’s care and education. Be sure your policy names the correct beneficiary—and consider directing funds into a trust.

6. Update Beneficiary Designations

Your will doesn’t override beneficiary forms. Review and update:

• Life insurance
• Retirement accounts (401k, IRA)
• Bank accounts with POD or TOD designations

Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Not naming a guardian
• ❌ Leaving assets directly to minors
• ❌ Forgetting to update your plan after new children or major life changes

We Help Kansas Families Protect What Matters Most

Whether you’re a first-time parent or growing your family, our team is here to help you:

• Understand your options
• Draft clear and effective legal documents
• Plan for your child’s care and financial future

📞 Schedule Your Free Consultation Today

Don’t wait until it’s too late to make a plan. Contact Minter & Pollak, LC today and let’s build a secure future for your family.

👉 Call 316-265-0797 or Book Online today.

Photo by Mariela Ferbo on Unsplash.