When people hear “estate planning,” they often think it’s something reserved for married couples or parents with children. But if you’re single, estate planning is not something to push off for later. In fact, it might be even more crucial. Without a spouse or legal partner to automatically inherit assets or make medical decisions on your behalf, you’ll need to make your wishes crystal clear. Otherwise, the state decides what happens to your estate—and it may not align with your values or the people you care most about.
As a single individual, you likely have a unique support system—friends, chosen family, nieces or nephews—that you’d prefer to benefit from your legacy. Estate planning ensures they’re included. It also ensures your healthcare decisions reflect your values, especially if you don’t have a default next of kin. An estate planning attorney in Denver can help tailor your plan so it fits your life exactly as it is today—and evolves with you in the future.
In this blog, we’ll explore why estate planning matters even more for single individuals, what documents you’ll need, and how to take action now so your voice is heard, even when you can’t speak for yourself.
The Hidden Risks of Going Without a Plan
Many singles assume that since they don’t have a spouse or children, estate planning isn’t urgent. But that’s a risky mindset. Without a will or trust, your assets could be distributed according to Colorado’s intestacy laws, which prioritize biological relatives—sometimes very distant ones—regardless of the closeness of your actual relationships.
Without advanced directives, you risk leaving medical and financial decisions in the hands of people you wouldn’t have chosen. These gaps can lead to conflict, delays, and unintended consequences that could’ve easily been avoided with guidance from an estate planning attorney in Denver.
Key Documents Singles Shouldn’t Skip
You don’t need a sprawling estate to benefit from planning. Here are the core documents every single adult should consider:
1. Last Will and Testament
Names who inherits your assets, appoints guardians for pets, and identifies your executor.
2. Living Trust
Useful for managing assets during your lifetime and avoiding probate after death.
3. Durable Power of Attorney
Let someone manage your finances if you become incapacitated.
4. Healthcare Power of Attorney
Appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf.
5. Advance Healthcare Directive (Living Will)
Outlines your wishes for end-of-life care.
Each of these ensures you—not the state—retain control over your health, finances, and legacy. An estate planning attorney near Denver can help you complete these efficiently and accurately.
Naming Your Beneficiaries Thoughtfully
As a single individual, you may want to leave assets to siblings, friends, godchildren, or charities. Unlike married couples who often default to their spouse, singles have to be more intentional.
Be sure to regularly review the beneficiary designations on your bank accounts, retirement funds, and insurance policies. These override anything written in a will or trust. An attorney can help you coordinate all your designations and documents so they don’t conflict.
Planning for Incapacity: Who Will Speak for You?
Illness or injury can strike at any time. If you’re hospitalized and unable to make decisions, who will advocate for your care? Without proper planning, the court may appoint a guardian or conservator who doesn’t know your preferences.
Choosing a healthcare proxy and financial agent in advance ensures that someone you trust is in charge. Whether it’s a close friend, sibling, or even a professional fiduciary, this decision is entirely up to you—but only if you make it ahead of time. This is one of the most critical areas where an attorney can offer valuable advice tailored to your specific circumstances.
Estate Planning Attorney in Denver: Your Legacy, Your Way
For many singles, the idea of legacy goes beyond bloodlines. You might want to support a cause you care about, fund education for a friend’s child, or preserve a family heirloom for a specific relative. Estate planning is how you document those intentions and make sure they’re honored.
Without a plan, your belongings might be sold off, your wishes forgotten, and your opportunity to make a lasting impact missed. An estate planning attorney near Denver can help you clarify your goals and create a plan that turns your vision into reality.
Secure Your Future Today with Denver Estate Tax Planning!
Planning your estate isn’t just for the wealthy or the married—it’s for anyone who values having a voice. And when you’re single, that voice is all the more important. Without a legal spouse or default next of kin, everything from your health decisions to your financial assets is left up to chance unless you plan ahead. That’s where Denver Estate Tax Planning delivers.
With years of experience helping individuals craft detailed and thoughtful plans, we know the unique challenges and freedoms that come with being single. We don’t just fill out paperwork—we help you build a strategy that reflects your values, safeguards your health, and preserves your legacy. Whether you’re just getting started or revisiting an outdated plan, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
Let’s protect what matters most—on your terms. Contact us now to schedule your personalized consultation.