A Real Story About the Cost of Being Unprepared

Michael Duarte had everything to live for. At 39 years old, the popular food influencer was growing his brand, creating recipes for millions of followers, and raising his daughter Oakley with his wife, Jessica. Then, on November 8, 2025, his life ended suddenly during what should have been an ordinary trip to Texas.

His death was unexpected — and devastating for his family emotionally and financially. Within hours, a GoFundMe appeared asking for help to bring his body home and cover funeral costs. Its message was sobering: “This heartbreak came without warning.”

That truth — that death doesn’t wait — is why estate planning matters for everyone.

The False Security of Youth and Health

When you’re in your thirties or forties, it’s easy to assume you have time to get your affairs in order. You think:

• You have years to plan.

• You’ll build wealth before it matters.

• You’ll handle this “later.”

  
  

But sometimes, later never comes.

Michael Duarte had survived past struggles and rebuilt his life. Nothing suggested his life would end now. And yet — it did.

The question isn’t whether death will come.The question is whether you’ll be prepared when it does.

If something happened tomorrow:

• Would your family know how to access your financial accounts?

• Would they have the cash to cover immediate expenses?

• Would they avoid going to strangers or crowdfunding to survive?

  
  

That’s what planning is really about.

The Hidden Costs of Being Unprepared

When someone dies without an estate plan, the financial fallout can be overwhelming.

Immediate expenses your family might face

• Transporting remains across states (often thousands of dollars)

• Funeral and burial costs(Average U.S. funeral costs: ~$6,280–$8,300)

• Probate, court, and legal fees

• Lost income from your contributions

• Accounts or assets that are tied up or undiscovered

  
  

Loved ones must make difficult decisions while they’re grieving, without clear direction or funds.

Life Insurance Isn’t Enough

Many assume that having life insurance means you’re “covered.” But in reality:

• Proceeds can take weeks or months to arrive.

• Insurance money payable to minors can get tied up in court.

• Payouts may be vulnerable to creditors, predators, or marital disputes.

  
  

What families truly need is practical access to funds immediately, not just a future payout.

What Effective Planning Actually Looks Like

Comprehensive planning isn’t about obsessing over death. It’s about protecting your family so they can focus on healing instead of financial survival.

A complete planning framework includes:

📘 Asset Inventory

A regularly updated list of:

• Financial accounts

• Property and business interests

• Digital assets

• Personal belongings with instructions for distribution

  
  

🔐 Clear Access Instructions

Your family should know:

• Where to find important documents

• How to access accounts

• What steps to take first

  
  

💵 Immediate Financial Resources

Account structures that provide funds for:

• Funeral expenses

• Mortgage and bills

• Daily living costs

  
  

🧾 Legal Tools That Work

Depending on your situation, your plan should include:

• Wills and trusts

• Powers of attorney

• Healthcare directives

• Guardianship designations

  
  

🤝 A Trusted Advisor

One person who:

• Knows your situation

• Will support your family when they need help

• Will keep plans updated as life changes

  
  

Regular Reviews Keep Your Plan Current

Life changes fast — new assets, new family circumstances, new goals. Without regular reviews, even a good plan can become outdated.

• Schedule annual reviews

• Update after major life events (marriage, birth, purchase of a home)

• Revisit after significant market or tax law changes

  
  

Why This Matters for You

Michael Duarte’s story is heartbreaking — but it doesn’t have to become your story.The time to plan is now, while you’re able to make decisions and protect the people you love.

We Help You Protect Your Family’s Financial Future

Real protection goes far beyond documents. Your loved ones need:

• A comprehensive plan that includes legal and practical safeguards

• Immediate access to funds when needed

• Guidance from a trusted advisor

  
  

We’ll help you through a Legacy Planning Session that ensures:

• Your assets are protected

• Your wishes are honored

• Your family is cared for — no matter what happens

  
  

Take the First Step Today

If you’re realizing your family may struggle without a plan, start now.