When Colorado residents think of legacy planning the first thing that comes to mind is a will. Maybe a trust or insurance. While these things are important, legacy planning goes beyond these traditional documents. It’s about your values and wishes that you’d like to carry on to your loved ones after you pass. It covers your healthcare preferences and emotional assets such as the life lessons, family traditions, stories, and charitable goals that matter most to you. It explains where to find important documents and passwords and what should happen with pets, or funeral wishes.

It does also include your traditional estate planning documents such as a will, trust, and power of attorney. It encompasses the whole picture of your legacy...not just your financials. In fact, only about 24% of Americans have a will in place, showing that the majority of families are still unprepared when it comes to protecting their legacy (2025 Will & Estate Planning Survey).

Many Americans delay estate planning because it feels overwhelming, uncomfortable, or easy to put off. Others assume they don’t have enough assets, don’t know where to start, or believe it’s only necessary later in life.

Take the First Step

The first step in creating a legacy plan is evaluating your current estate planning documents. These should be created or updated with the correct beneficiaries to ensure a seamless transfer of assets under Colorado law. For families in the Denver metro area, this step is especially important because estate and probate rules can vary based on state requirements and individual circumstances.

Next, consider what matters to you beyond finances, including the lessons, stories, and values you want to pass on to your loved ones. This can include decisions such as who will care for the family dog, where to find the code to your jewelry safe, or how to access important documents and accounts in the event of incapacity or passing.

If you don’t already have a legacy plan in place, our Golden and Littleton, CO-based advisors can help you create a plan tailored to your family’s needs and Colorado estate planning considerations. A thoughtful legacy plan gives your family clarity about your wishes, confidence in honoring your decisions, and a stronger sense of connection through shared understanding and open communication.