Documentation To Have In Place Before Death

Realizing that you will die someday is a sobering thought, but it is a fact of life that cannot be avoided. The most challenging aspect of estate planning for the typical American is often just getting started. While most of us are aware that we should take precautions to safeguard our possessions and provide for our loved ones after we pass away, the specifics of how to do so often overwhelm us.

Your first step should be to prepare documentation to ensure that your loved ones are not left in a vulnerable and stressful position. You can control who has access to your medical records and assets after you're gone by naming heirs and appointing a power of attorney.

Documentation To Have In Place

Our experience at George Darte Funeral Home has shown that this helps reduce the emotional strain grieving families experience. Pre-death paperwork that should be in order includes:

1. Power Of Attorney For Healthcare

A healthcare power of attorney (POA) is a legally binding document that designates another person to act on your healthcare behalf if you cannot do so. It's relevant in various scenarios, including being temporarily unconscious or having a terminal illness. You should pick someone you can rely on.

2. Will

In a legal document called a will, you name your beneficiaries, the people or organizations receiving your property, and other assets after your death. To properly assess your estate and draft a legally binding will, you should seek the advice of a qualified estate attorney. Choose an individual to act as your executor and fulfil your wishes as stated in your legal will. Verify that they are willing to serve in this capacity, and appoint a backup executor in case the primary one cannot do so.

3. Living Will

You can't just make a living will if you already have a healthcare power of attorney or a regular will. In the event of your death, the standard will take effect, while the living will govern in the event of your incapacitation.

Get in touch with a qualified legal professional if you need straightforward documentation on estate planning. They'll be better prepared to deal with the legalities of setting up necessary paperwork before they die. For details about our funeral services, please contact George Darte Funeral Home. One of our team members will call you soon to answer your questions.