Estate planning isn’t just for older generations. It’s about making sure your wishes are followed and your loved ones don’t face unnecessary hurdles. If you’re over 18, certain legal protections can help ensure your medical, financial, and digital life is handled the way you want. Without a plan, decisions may fall to state laws or family members who may not know your preferences. Whether you have savings, investments, or just a few online accounts, taking small steps now can make a big difference. At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we can help you put the right documents in place to protect what matters to you.
Why Estate Planning Matters for Gen Z
Turning 18 comes with new responsibilities, including the need to make legal and financial decisions for yourself. Without an estate plan, your loved ones may struggle to access your accounts, manage your finances, or make medical choices on your behalf if you become unable to do so. Even something as simple as handling your rent or student loan payments could become a challenge. By naming beneficiaries, setting up powers of attorney, and creating a healthcare directive, you can ensure your wishes are followed. We will help you put the proper protections in place so you’re prepared for whatever comes next.
Managing Digital Assets: What Happens to Your Online Life?
Your online presence is more than just social media—it includes financial accounts, cloud storage, cryptocurrencies, and even personal projects. Without a plan, these assets can be lost, locked away, or even misused. Many platforms have strict policies on account access, making it difficult for loved ones to retrieve important information or close accounts if needed.
To protect your digital assets, we will help you:
- Create a digital inventory – List important accounts, passwords (stored securely), and access instructions.
- Appoint a digital executor – Choose someone to manage or close accounts according to your wishes.
- Decide what happens to your online presence – Some people want social media profiles memorialized, while others prefer full deletion.
- Protect financial assets – Ensure digital wallets, investment accounts, and payment apps are not overlooked.
Taking these steps keeps your online life secure and ensures your digital legacy is handled the way you want.
Beneficiary Designations: The Simplest Step You Can Take Today
One of the easiest ways to ensure your assets go to the right people is by naming beneficiaries on financial accounts. Many accounts allow you to designate who will receive the funds upon your passing, bypassing probate and reducing delays for your loved ones.
Common accounts with beneficiary options include:
- Bank accounts (payable-on-death designations)
- Retirement accounts (401(k), IRA)
- Life insurance policies
If you haven’t named a beneficiary—or if your circumstances have changed—you may want to review your designations. Without a named beneficiary, your assets could be tied up in legal processes or distributed in a way that doesn’t align with your wishes. We will help you review your accounts and make sure they reflect your current preferences.
Basic Legal Protections: Healthcare and Financial Decisions
Estate planning isn’t just about passing down assets—it also ensures your medical and financial affairs are handled according to your wishes if you can’t make decisions yourself. Without the right legal documents, your loved ones may struggle to step in when you need them most.
Key protections include:
- Healthcare Proxy – Appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
- Advance Directive – Provides clear instructions about your medical care preferences in critical situations.
- HIPAA Authorization – Grants specific individuals access to your medical records, ensuring they can communicate with doctors.
- Durable Power of Attorney – Allows a trusted person to manage your finances, such as paying bills or handling accounts.
These documents give you control over who makes decisions for you, reducing stress and legal complications for your family. At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we will help you put the right protections in place so you’re prepared for any situation.
Unique Challenges for Gen Z: Student Debt, Careers, and Family Structure
Estate planning should align with both your financial situation and your personal relationships. For many members of Gen Z, unique financial challenges and modern lifestyles make planning especially important.
Key considerations include:
- Student loan debt: While most federal student loans are discharged upon death, some private loans may still require repayment. Naming a trusted person to manage outstanding debts can protect your family from unnecessary financial or emotional stress.
- Freelance and gig work: Many Gen Z workers are self-employed or work multiple side jobs without traditional benefits. Creating a plan that includes emergency savings, disability protection, and business succession planning ensures long-term stability.
- Evolving family dynamics: Modern families may include blended families, long-term partners, or close friends who serve as chosen family. An estate plan ensures your assets, healthcare directives, and guardianship preferences reflect your relationships and values—not just default state laws.
By addressing these realities early, Gen Z individuals can build a plan that protects their future, supports loved ones, and provides peace of mind.
Contact Our Experienced Southeastern Massachusetts Gen Z Estate Planning Attorneys
Estate planning is about making sure your choices are respected and your loved ones are protected. Whether you want to name a healthcare decision-maker, manage digital assets, or ensure your finances are handled properly, having a plan in place provides peace of mind. At Surprenant & Beneski, P.C., we will help you create a plan that fits your life today and adapts to your future needs. Contact us to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting what matters most.