Parents naturally want to treat their children fairly, but fairness does not always mean dividing everything into equal shares. A well-designed estate plan looks at each child’s circumstances and aims to provide support where it is most needed.
For example, you may choose to leave a larger share to a child with limited income or long-term financial challenges. A child who has acted as your primary caregiver may fairly receive more in recognition of their time and sacrifice. Younger children or those with special needs may require additional planning to ensure continued care. If one child plans to run the family business, it may be best for them to inherit the business while other children receive different assets of comparable value.
Fairness also includes deciding how and when a child receives their inheritance. A responsible adult child may benefit from a lump sum to pay down a mortgage or invest for retirement. Younger beneficiaries may do better with installment distributions over several years or tied to life milestones like buying a home. If a child struggles with finances or has creditor concerns, naming a trustee to oversee their inheritance may protect them from mismanaging funds or losing assets in divorce or lawsuits. Special needs beneficiaries require careful planning so financial support does not disqualify them from government benefits.
Many families use trusts to protect inheritances, control distribution, and shield assets from outside risks. Others choose to give lifetime gifts, allowing them to enjoy helping their children now while also potentially reducing future estate taxes.
Estate planning is highly personal. A fair plan reflects your family’s real-world needs — not just equal numbers on paper. We are here to help you design a plan that aligns with your values and protects your legacy.
Questions about your estate plan? Call our office at 561.694.7827 and schedule a consultation. Elder & Estate Planning Attorneys PA, 480 Maplewood Drive, Suite 3, Jupiter, FL.
The content of this article is general and should not be relied upon without reviewing your specific circumstances by competent legal counsel. Reliance on the information herein is at your own risk, as it expresses no opinion by the firm on your legal needs. An attorney–client relationship is not created through the information provided.
