As we age, there are necessary financial transitions that must be taken into account. With approaching retirement issues come the need for planning IRAs, tax considerations for seniors, and more. Estate planning becomes essential as well.

When it comes to estate planning, Seattle and its surrounding communities offer a number of support networks that are either free or specifically for seniors and retired individuals. To find out more about each, keep reading.

Senior Rights Assistance of Seattle

The Senior Rights Assistance of Seattle (SRAS) has a great program where they match seniors with retired estate planners, accountants, lawyers and financial advisors to help them with their estate planning and financial goals. To participate in the program, you must first set up an appointment. You can do so by calling 206-448-5720.

The Senior Rights Assistance of Seattle office is open from 9:30 to 3:30 every Monday to Thursday. They can also help provide recommendations for attorneys, advance directives, will preparation and other estate planning services. If you get a voicemail, just leave a message.

Estate Planning Council of Seattle

The Estate Planning Council (EPC) is a national trade association with an active Seattle branch. Their membership is comprised of estate planners, attorneys, financial advisors, trust officers, chartered accountants, funeral directors and insurance brokers. Each of their members is focused on providing sound advice and services related to estate planning, advance directives, wills and more.

To get in touch with the Estate Planning Council. There, they offer free booklets and information on estate planning along with a searchable members directory.

Social Security in the Seattle Area

Social Security is a federal issue, not simply a Washington state issue. However, it is critical that you understand how much Social Security you should be receiving and what happens to those payments after you pass away. One place to find answers for all your Social Security questions is the Social Security Administration.

For help with your Social Security benefits, try contacting the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 or online at socialsecurity.gov. Their website offers a comprehensive FAQ, various how-to articles and lots of online tools to help you.

Legal Aid Clinics in Seattle

Another great source of very affordable (free) legal advice regarding estate planning are the 25 community legal aid clinics across Seattle and King County. They are sponsored and run by the King County Bar Association.

Attendees of these events are offered 30 minutes of free consultation with a volunteering attorney and can get assistance with questions about their wills or anything related to estate planning matters. People of all income levels and ages are welcome to attend. To book an appointment or for more information, call 206-267-7070.

When it comes to estate planning, Seattle offers numerous options and support networks that can help you make wise financial decisions toward the end of your life. These include the legal aid clinics, the local Estate Planning Council, the Senior Rights Assistance group and, of course, the Social Security Administration.