Most of us might not think we have an “estate”: this is something for the rich and famous.
But an estate is simply a collection of the assets we’ve accumulated over a lifetime. Planning for end-of-life involves forming an estate plan. Who will receive your assets? Administer your estate? Serve as guardian of your children upon your death? Your estate plan helps make your wishes known.
It will also communicate your wishes related to life-sustaining treatment decisions and allow you to address other issues while you are living regarding financial and healthcare matters. That sounds like a lot, but it’s possible to simplify your estate-related paperwork with this checklist:
- Make a last will and testament to designate the recipient(s) of your property and estate after your passing.
- Appoint powers of attorney (POA) in case you become incapacitated or can no longer handle your own affairs.
- Create an advance directive to state your wishes for end-of-life care in case you are unable to voice these wishes yourself when the time comes.
- Decide who your beneficiaries will be to receive your assets.
Watch this video with LegalShield Provider Lawyer John Markham to understand how LegalShield can help you through each step of the way.
Legal assistance is vital when you are making these important decisions. If you do not have LegalShield, consider enrolling at your next opportunity.