Beyond Annuities: Protecting your legacy with estate planning

At MassMutual Ascend, we understand the importance of a secure future. That's why we don't just offer products to help you reach your financial goals - we also provide educational tools and resources that can help you navigate your future with confidence. 

Build the legacy you want

Annuities can provide valuable income and security for you and your loved ones, but without proper planning, these benefits may be diminished by taxes, delays or unintended distribution outcomes.

That's why estate planning is an important step in securing your legacy. It helps ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, may reduce potential conflicts among family members, and can even minimize taxes and legal complications.

What is estate planning?

An estate plan helps ensure that your assets will be distributed according to your wishes when you're no longer capable of making financial, legal or health-related decisions. Estate planning often involves executing important legal documents (such as a will), confirming medical wishes, nominating guardians for minor children or other dependents, and figuring out who will inherit your assets.

Who is estate planning for?

A 2024 Wills and Estate Planning Study found that only 32% of Americans have an estate plan, and 40% of people who don't have a will say it's because they don't have enough assets.¹

The reality is that estate plans can benefit anyone, regardless of your net worth. You don't need to have a lot of assets to decide what you want to happen to them when you die, or to state your preferences for your care should you become incapacitated. 

Without a plan, you may be leaving your loved ones with the burden of trying to settle your estate, which can involve stress, costs and delays in distributing assets. An estate plan can help maintain your control of your assets.

¹2024 Wills and Estate Planning Study; Caring.com. www.caring.com/caregivers/estate-planning/wills.survey. 

Having an estate plan can help build and protect your legacy, control how and when your assets are distributed, protect your privacy and ensure your wishes are carried out and minimize expenses, taxes and probate costs.

Estate planning is a comprehensive process that helps to ensure you'll leave the legacy you want. Talk to an estate planning attorney today about establishing an estate plan and help bring peace of mind as you plan for your future.

To learn more about the building blocks of an estate plan, common mistakes to avoid and how to get started, view our Estate Planning brochure.

All situations are unique, and this insight only provides general information. Therefore, you should consult with qualified professionals who can provide advice relevant to your specific circumstances. For estate planning, you should speak to an estate planning attorney.

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MassMutual Ascend is not an investment advisor and the information provided in this document is not investment advice. You should consult your investment professional for advice based on your personal circumstances and financial situation.

This information is not intended or written to be used as legal or tax advice. You should seek advice on legal and tax questions based on your particular circumstances from an independent attorney or tax advisor.

All guarantees based on the claims-paying ability of MassMutual Ascend. Products are issued by MassMutual Ascend Life Insurance Company^SM (Cincinnati, Ohio), a wholly owned subsidiary of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual).

This content does not apply in the state of New York.

Not a bank or credit union deposit or obligation – Not FDIC or NCUA-insured – Not insured by any federal government agency – May lose value – Not guaranteed by any bank or credit union

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