Estate Planning Made Easy: How Your Legal Services Plan Helps You

Estate planning may sound like something you can put off or something only “wealthy people” need to worry about. But the truth is, if you’re a University employee, you already have access to professional estate planning help through your Legal Services Plan. And taking advantage of it now could save your loved ones time, stress, and money in the future. 

At Provizr, we don’t offer legal advice, but we do specialize in helping University employees make the most of their benefits. That includes understanding how your Legal Services Plan supports your long-term financial security. 

Why Estate Planning Matters for Everyone 

Estate planning isn’t just about money or assets. It’s about making sure your wishes are honored, your loved ones are protected, and your future is clearly mapped out in case something unexpected happens. 

Here are some of the key tools included in a solid estate plan: 

• Will – Directs who receives your assets and who will care for any minor children 

• Trust – Helps manage or transfer property efficiently 

• Power of Attorney – Appoints someone to handle your financial matters if you become unable to 

• Healthcare Directive – Documents your wishes regarding medical care if you can’t speak for yourself 

Without these documents, your family could face delays, legal costs, and difficult decisions during already stressful times. 

What the Legal Services Plan Covers 

If you’re enrolled in your University’s Legal Services Plan, you don’t need to pay out of pocket for these critical services. The plan gives you access to network attorneys who can help you: 

• Draft or revise your will or living trust 

• Create durable power of attorney and healthcare directives 

• Understand what tools best fit your needs 

You won’t be charged legal fees for these services when you work with an approved provider. That means no surprise bills, no confusion, and no delay in getting your estate plan in place. 

It’s Easier Than You Think 

Getting started may feel intimidating, but your Legal Services Plan makes the process simple. Most providers offer online intake tools or phone consultations to walk you through everything step by step. You’ll need to gather some basic information like: 

• Who you want to inherit your assets 

• Who should be in charge of carrying out your wishes 

• Who you would trust to make medical or financial decisions on your behalf 

Once you’ve got a plan in place, many providers allow you to review and update it annually. This ensures your documents stay up to date as your life changes. 

A Simple Step with a Big Impact 

Estate planning is one of the most important gifts you can give your loved ones. It provides clarity and confidence during moments when they need it most. And thanks to your Legal Services Plan, getting this protection in place is not only possible but affordable and stress-free. 

Your Next Step 

1. Log in to your University’s benefits portal and confirm you’re enrolled in the Legal Services Plan. 

2. Review your plan booklet for specific instructions and covered services. 

3. Contact a network attorney and set your estate plan in motion. 

You’ll sleep better knowing this essential task is done. 

Coming next in the series: 

“Navigating Family Law Issues with Your University Legal Plan.”