It’s startling: 70% of Americans lack a basic estate plan, leaving families vulnerable to court battles, frozen assets, and lost legacies.
For every American, this oversight risks everything you’ve built. At J. Davenport Legal, we see the same excuses repeatedly.
What are the top reasons people avoid estate planning? Fear of death, perceived complexity, cost worries, time constraints, and not seeing the need.
But these are myths—planning is simpler and more affordable than you think. This article debunks the top 5 reasons and shows why you should act in 2025 to protect your family.
How can you overcome these estate plan barriers? Read on to secure your legacy.
Why do people avoid thinking about death? Estate planning forces us to face our end, triggering anxiety that leads to procrastination.
Many put it off, thinking “I’m healthy now.” Why shouldn’t you? Ignoring it risks intestate death, where state laws—not your wishes—divide assets, sparking family conflicts. A simple conversation with us turns fear into empowerment, ensuring your loved ones are cared for.
What makes it seem overwhelming? Legal jargon and the “how to start” hurdle deter 12% of people, who feel lost without guidance.
The reality? Modern tools like our cloud-hosted trusts make it straightforward, with fixed fees starting at $400. No need for lawyers’ hours—our free consultation clarifies your path in 30 minutes.
Why the money worry? People fear high attorney fees, assuming estate planning is for the wealthy.
Why it’s a myth? Probate costs 4–7% of your estate ($10K+ for modest ones), far exceeding planning fees. Our fixed-price plans save 50% vs. hourly rates, protecting your $250K+ assets from unnecessary losses.
Why delay? Busy lives make “later” appealing, but life changes like health issues strike unexpectedly.
The risk? Without a plan, courts decide for you, delaying access to funds for funerals or bills. In 2025, with tax changes looming, now’s the time—our quick setup fits your schedule.
Why the blind spot? Many think “I don’t have enough assets,” underestimating risks like guardianship for minors or asset freezes.
Why act? Even modest estates face probate delays (9–18 months), eroding inheritance. Planning ensures your hard work benefits family, not courts.
| Reason | Common Excuse | Why Plan Anyway |
|---|---|---|
| Fear of Death | “Too morbid to think about” | Empowers your family, reduces grief |
| Complexity | “I don’t know where to start” | Simple, guided process with us |
| Cost | “It’s too expensive” | Cheaper than probate ($10K+ saved) |
| No Time | “I’ll do it later” | Quick setup, protects immediately |
| Not Important | “I don’t have much” | Guards against courts for all |
These excuses leave 70% exposed, but a sound plan protects what you’ve built—your home, savings, and family peace.
In 2025, with tax sunsets and rising costs, delaying costs more. Ready to protect your legacy? Our free consultation starts you on a simple path. Schedule below, today.