When we can, Thea and I love to hop in the Jeep with our dog Rex and head deep into the desert. We're not talking about a quick Sunday drive—we mean the real stuff: switchbacks, dry washes, rocky trails, and big skies. The kind of places where the pavement ends and cell service disappears. That's our version of peace and quiet.
But before we back out of the driveway, there's always a checklist: oil full, brakes tested, tires aired up, water loaded, snacks packed, Rex's travel bowl and water, and a shady spot for him in the back. It's second nature now since we have taken our jeep across the country several times in cold and hot weather. We've learned that skipping even one of those steps could turn a relaxing ride into a real problem—especially in 110-degree heat. Why? Because if something goes wrong out on the backroads—we're not just inconvenienced. We're in trouble.
While Jeeping through Colorado last winter, we had to review the weather forecast daily and navigate travel plans if the roads became impassable due to snow or falling rocks. Sometimes we even change our plans to stay in a different city than our original itinerary. We have to be ready for anything. Also, never hurts to pack a compass and hard copy maps in case we are in an area without a cell signal for quick decisions.
Preparation Applies to Life Too
That kind of preparation doesn't just apply to off-roading. It applies to life—especially when it comes to inheritance and estate planning. If you don't prepare before the road gets bumpy, the consequences can hit your loved ones hard. Skip a step, and your family could be stranded in a legal and emotional breakdown with no AAA in sight. You can provide essential tools to help them work through a new journey without you.
After decades of helping people get ready for retirement, I've seen the difference between families who plan ahead and those who don't. Too often, good intentions fall short. Key documents are outdated or missing. Assets get tangled in probate. Adult children are left overwhelmed at the worst possible time. It doesn't have to be that way.
Maybe have a sit-down with us, review your documents, and make sure your retirement vehicle is road-ready. So, you don't leave your family stranded with questions. Don't know where to start? Join us for our next Inheritance Planning Workshop. Call us to reserve your seat.
By David Schaeffer
Founder of American Retirement Advisors, David has spent decades helping retirees and pre-retirees build secure financial futures. His straightforward approach to retirement planning has guided hundreds of families toward confident, well-prepared retirements.
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Easy Eddie's Take
David's checklist approach really makes sense when you think about the essential estate planning documents most people need. Let's take a look at this together: you'll want a current will, durable power of attorney for finances, healthcare power of attorney, and an advance directive. In 2026, Arizona doesn't have a state estate tax, but the federal estate tax exemption is $13.99 million per person, so most families focus on avoiding probate and making things easier for their loved ones.
Here's the good news—a lot of people ask me, "How often should I update my estate planning documents?" The answer is pretty simple: review them every three to five years, or whenever you have a major life change like marriage, divorce, new grandchildren, or moving to a different state. Think of it this way—you wouldn't drive cross-country on old tires, so don't leave your family with outdated paperwork.
Most people are surprised when they learn this, but having beneficiaries named on your retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and bank accounts can help those assets skip probate entirely. A little preparation today can make a big difference for your family tomorrow.