How Self-Storage Can Help With Estate Planning

No matter your stage in life, the thought of estate planning can be overwhelming. There is a lot to take care of and just getting started can seem like a daunting task. However, getting started early and staying organized is a great way to ensure a smooth process. One way to help keep all your affairs in order is with the help of a self storage unit or locker. These spaces can hold your belongings and be accessed by friends and family when needed. This guide from professionals at Absolute Storage Management shares how self storage can help with estate planning.

The Importance of Estate Planning

You may be wondering, what exactly is estate planning? Estate planning is the process of arranging the transfer of an individual’s assets after their death. Some of the tasks include:

• Creating a will
• Designating a guardian
• Selecting a power of attorney
• Outlining your wishes
• Managing estate assets

What you plan to include and why type of advisors (lawyers, accountants, financial planners, bankers) is up to you but the core document most often associated with this process is your will. 

Utilizing Self Storage to Help With Estate Planning

Storage units have many uses, from keeping holiday decorations out of the way during months to storing inventory organized for your growing business and some facilities even have boat and RV storage for when you’re not on the road. During your estate planning process, self storage units are a great place to keep important documents in a centralized location. They can also be used to organize belongings when planning for an estate sale, as well as keep heirlooms after a family member has passed away. 

Preparing For an Estate Sale

One of the first things that an executor may do after someone has passed is settling real estate. This will often affect other aspects of the process such as inheritance distribution and taxes. If there are items you don’t want included in the sale you can place them in a storage unit to help quickly clean out a home. If you’re overwhelmed, this is also a great way to place belongings aside until you’re ready to sort through them. 

Most self-storage units are available to rent on a month-to-month basis so you can rent a space for as long, or short, as you need without being locked into a long-term contract. Take your time and ensure all tasks are completed correctly.

Storage of Heirlooms

For family members who are located out of town, they may not be able to immediately take heirlooms or other items into their possession. Rather than make a snap decision on keeping or selling the items, place them in self-storage until arrangements can be made. By selecting a climate-controlled storage unit, you can rest assured knowing that even the most delicate items have an additional layer of protection against temperature-related damage such as melting, warping, or chipping. 

Absolute Storage Managed Facilities Can Help With Estate Asset Storage

Whether you’re just starting your estate planning journey or are well into settling the estate of a loved one, self-storage can be extremely beneficial. At facilities in the Absolute Storage Management portfolio you’ll find storage units available in a variety of sizes with amenities that will make your experience a seamless one from start to finish. Select a storage unit with the help of our storage unit size guide or find answers to frequently asked storage questions. Find a storage facility near you and get started on your self storage journey, we’re here for you every step of the way.