In this quick but packed full of information episode, Michelle discusses the importance of including plans for your pets in your estate planning. Many households now have companion animals, so it is crucial to consider what will happen to dogs, cats, or other pets if their owners become unable to care for them or pass away. Michelle recommennds speaking with your estate attorney about setting aside funds and establishing guardians for your pets. She also suggests utilizing local animal rescues, shelters, and foster programs that can provide temporary or permanent care for pets when needed. The key takeaway is to proactively plan for how your pets will be cared for after you're gone, whether it's temporarily or permanently, to gain peace of mind knowing they will be well looked after.

"You can set a dollar amount and your wish list for future guardianship for your favorite pets and then know and have the peace of mind that they'll be well cared for." - Michelle Hipskind

This week on The EmpowHER Podcast:

• The importance of including pets in estate planning since 66% of households have companion animals
• Options for temporary or permanent care solutions for pets through local rescues, shelters, and foster programs
• Speaking with your estate attorney about setting aside funds and parameters for your pets' care after you're gone
• Using planned giving to set up guardianship and funds for future owners of your pets to keep them in the lifestyle you provided
• Asking local shelters and rescues and bringing it up at estate planning reviews

Our Favorite Quotes:

• "Even though we don't like to consider having our pets outlive us, it's certainly an important factor when planning for the future." - Michelle Hipskind
• "Many local rescue organizations and privately run shelters and even municipal shelters offer programming to help support those who either temporarily or permanently need care solutions for their pets." - Michelle Hipskind

About SYM Financial and The EmpowHER Podcast

The EmpowHER Podcast is a platform for women to come together to gain financial insight and strategies with a tribe of brilliant women. This show is brought to you by Financial Advisor Michelle Hipskind, CFP ®. Michelle educates on the many important aspects of financial planning and brings in additional professionals that provide advice in their areas of expertise, giving listeners access to the appropriate professionals that can help solve the problems many women face. In-person events are held in the Fort Wayne, Indiana area. In addition to the podcast, local events, webinars and blogs are available for all women who want to be part of the EmpowHER community.

Email Michell at [email protected] with questions, comments, and to schedule a one-on-one conversation.

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Disclosure: Certain links above are to third-party sites and are not affiliated with SYM Financial Corporation ("SYM"). SYM is an independent investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. More information about SYM including our investment strategies, fees and objectives can be found in our ADV Part 2, which is available upon request.