Don’t Let One Form Ruin Your Retirement: Estate Planning Secrets for NC Teachers

If you're a North Carolina teacher nearing retirement, you’ve probably already mapped out your pension, health coverage, and maybe even your travel plans. But there’s one piece of the puzzle that too many educators overlook — a complete estate strategy.

And no — having a will isn’t enough.

In fact, one outdated form could send your assets to the wrong person, regardless of what your will says.

🎥 Watch: Estate Planning Secrets for Retiring NC Teachers

We recently hosted a live Retirement Ready session to dive into this very topic, featuring real-life examples, practical advice, and clear steps you can take today to avoid costly mistakes.

👉 Click here to watch the full session:
 

Why This Topic Matters

Did you know that over one-third of Americans have an outdated beneficiary listed on at least one account?

It’s more common than you think — and for teachers, it often shows up in:

• 403(b) or 457(b) retirement plans

• Life insurance policies

• State pension forms

Here’s the problem:

Even if you’ve created a will, your beneficiary forms override it. That means if you listed someone 10 years ago — a former spouse, a parent who has passed, or someone you no longer talk to — they could still legally receive your assets.

✅ 3 Essentials Every NC Teacher Should Have

To ensure your estate plan truly reflects your wishes, make sure you have:

1. A Current Will

This outlines who gets what and can name guardians for dependents, but remember: it won’t override your retirement account forms.

2. Powers of Attorney

Assign someone to make decisions if you become incapacitated — both for financial and medical matters.

3. Updated Beneficiaries

Check your forms for retirement accounts, pensions, and life insurance. Update them if anything has changed — marriages, divorces, family losses, or even just life evolving.

Final Thoughts

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy — it’s for anyone who wants to have a say in how their legacy is carried out. As a teacher, you’ve spent your career helping others. Make sure your financial life story ends the way you intended — not the way a forgotten form dictates.

Need help reviewing your documents?

I offer a complimentary 15-minute call to walk you through your options and help make sure everything is aligned with your goals.

👉 Schedule your call here:https://bit.ly/4440F9l