When and How to Start Estate Planning as a Business Owner

Estate planning often gets pushed aside, especially when you’re busy running a business. But the earlier you start, the more flexibility and control you’ll have over how your legacy is preserved.

At MCAC, we help Alaska business owners start smart, build over time, and adjust their plans as life changes. Here’s when to start estate planning, what steps to take first, and how we make it manageable.

1️⃣ When to Start: The Sooner, the Better

You don’t need to be wealthy or retired to plan your estate. If you own a business or have people who depend on you, now is the right time to begin.

2️⃣ Step One: Get Organized

Start by listing your assets, liabilities, and key documents. We help clients organize their financials and clarify their business structure so planning can begin with clarity.

3️⃣ Step Two: Identify Your Goals

Do you want your business to stay in the family? Be sold? Merge with another company? Your estate plan should reflect your vision and prepare your heirs for what’s ahead.

4️⃣ Step Three: Assemble Your Team

You’ll need legal, tax, and business professionals working together. MCAC coordinates with estate attorneys to ensure your plan is financially sound and legally enforceable.

5️⃣ Step Four: Review and Revisit

Estate plans aren’t one-and-done. We recommend revisiting your plan every 1–2 years or after major life events to keep it current and aligned with your goals.

Don’t wait until a crisis to get started. With the right support, estate planning can be straightforward, empowering, and tailored to your business and life.

📞 Ready to protect your business and your family’s future? Let’s take the first step together.