Create an Estate Plan to Carry Out Your Wishes

The importance of making end of life preparations cannot be stressed enough. Many people put off making these plans thinking there is always time. The sad reality is that none of us are guaranteed time. Others may be bothered by the thought of death itself and allow this to paralyze them when it comes to making plans and getting their affairs in order for the end of life. However, most of these same people have wishes and thoughts about where and to whom their assets are distributed. Many of them also have ideas about what they do and do not wish to have happen when their life ends. Lack of preparation and planning means that these wishes likely will not be honored. In addition, it causes additional strain and stress on the people who are left to sort out the affairs.

If you or your elderly loved one have not made end of life preparations, make time to do so as quickly as possible. Our firm can help guide you and can make sure the proper documents are in place to carry out your wishes regarding your health, the care that you want (or don’t want) to receive, and who should receive your money and possessions.

Below are five key documents that you may wish to consider:

A Will

Most people are familiar with our first key document which is a will. A will allows you to specify where your money and possessions should go upon your passing. It also allows you to choose an executor of the estate. The executor will take care of managing the estate, paying debts, and distributing property as specified. A will only takes effect upon your death.

Living Trust

The second document is called a living trust.  A living trust does everything a will can do, but because it is effective during your lifetime, it also allows you to choose someone who will manage your assets if you become incapacitated. In addition, a living trust provides privacy, as it is not subject to court proceedings that become open to the public like a will is. There are numerous other advantages to a living trust that can be explored with the help of an attorney.

Living Will

A living will is the third key document you might consider. A living will specifies your wishes for end-of-life medical care. For example, you can specify whether or not you want to be kept alive by artificial means if you are in a terminal state.

Health Care Power of Attorney

The fourth document specifies a health care power of attorney who will make health care decisions for you, in the event you aren’t able to make decisions yourself. Both the living will and the health care power of attorney outline your wishes about medical treatment and care when you can’t make them for yourself.

Financial Power of Attorney

Lastly, a financial power of attorney should be in the plan as well. A financial power of attorney names an agent to handle your finances in the event you are no longer able to.  An agent can open and close bank accounts, write checks, and sell property if you choose to allow them the authority to do so.

Having an estate plan is necessary for you to have a say in what happens if you become sick and cannot make decisions for yourself, and to determine what happens with your money and your belongings after death. An estate plan also helps those who are left to deal with the estate to do so in a more simple and straightforward manner.  Contact our Auburn office by calling 260-925-3738 to discuss your estate planning needs and for additional information.