Ep 76: Estate Planning Mistakes that Complicate the Inheritance Process
by Financial Design Studio, Inc. / July 29, 2026A strong estate isn’t just about your wishes… It’s also about making your affairs easily handled after you are gone. In this episode, Michelle and Trevore discuss the mistakes we’ve seen in how assets are passed down and the ways paperwork becomes your beneficiaries nightmare.
Take a listen right here, or watch the video on YouTube!
Related Links for Estate Planning Mistakes
Find the Estate Planning Checklist here!
FDS Resources for Leaving a Legacy:
- Article: Leaving a Legacy by thinking Two Generations Deep
- Video: Creating and Funding Estate Plans
- Podcast: Ep 25. Creating Successful Estate Plans and Strong Family Relationships
- Podcast: Ep 69. What You Forget to Plan For Until After Your Spouse Passes
- Podcast: Ep 70. What You Should Expect If You Are Named Trustee
Timestamps:
1:27 What makes a strong estate plan?
5:54 This or That: What estate documents should you use?
13:02 What documents should you use for accounts?
20:59 What kind of documents should you use for property?
23:28 How will you pass on digital access?
33:27 What makes the inheritance process challenging?
48:31 Should you give now or after you pass away?
52:48 Closing thoughts
Credits for Episode 76
Host: Michelle Smalenberger, CFP®
Guest: Trevore Meyer, CFP®
Executive Producer: Anna Lewis
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Recommended Reading
Ep 75: How to Decide When to Move into a Retirement Community
In this episode, Michelle interviews Royce on the process of downsizing, picking the community, and what her family's experience has been.
Ep 74: Is Your Marriage Ready for Retirement?
In this episode, Michelle interviews Dave and Diane about how they built their finances together and are now preparing to retire together.
Financial Design Studio, Inc.
We are financial advisors in Deer Park and Barrington, IL. A team with a passion for helping others design a path to financial success — whatever success means for you. Each of our unique insights fit together to create broad expertise, complete roadmaps, and creative solutions. We have seen the power of having a financial plan, and adjusting that plan to life. The result? Freedom from worrying about the future so you can enjoy today.