What is Estate Planning?

Thinking about planning for your death is not easy.  I remember when my mother wanted to plan for her own death, I would often say things like – “We can always do that later.  Right now let’s focus on getting you better.”  I said these things because I could not bare the pain of my mother’s death.  It caused me anxiety and dread.

““A well-planned death is a wonderful gift to pass on to your loved ones after you die.””

Luckily for her loved ones, my mother set my fears aside and planned for her death – what she wanted done with her body, her funeral, and her finances.  My mother also ensured that I knew where her paperwork was when I needed it. 

I often say this because I mean it – “A well-planned death is a wonderful gift to pass on to your loved ones after you die.”

This list is meant to help you begin estate planning.  The list below is not dispositive.  There are other documents to address other legal and financial issues which might arise.  As I usually state in my blog posts, an attorney can help you create the best documents for you and your loved ones.

Creating Financial Documents: Will, Trust, Durable Power of Attorney

• Guardianship for Minors

• Making Healthcare Decisions if you become Incapacitated: Healthcare Power of Attorney, Living Will, HIPAA Authorization

• Anatomical Gifts

• Reviewing Other Financial Documents: Deeds, Titles, Bank Accounts, Employer Benefits, Credit Cards, Investment Accounts, Insurance Policies, etc.

• Putting all the Important Phone Numbers and Online Account Information in one Secure Location

• Making Sure your loved one, executor, trustee knows the location of that paperwork

• Discussing Advanced Healthcare Planning with Your Doctor and your Loved One, especially the Medical Power of Attorney to ensure they understand your wishes.

• Pre-planned Funeral Arrangements

• Guardianship and Care Plans for Pets