Let's be honest, death is not a popular topic of conversation for the average American. Unfortunately, our discomfort with our mortality often leads us to put off estate planning as long as possible. Did you know that estate planning is also important for life? The beauty of life is having the power to write your own unique story. Make sure you are in charge of the important details!
Illness, aging, accidents, and other every day, non-life-ending events can bring about the need for common estate planning tools. If you become incapacitated, even temporarily, who will manage your medical decisions and financial affairs? It is important to appoint agents (or proxies) to handle these issues before they ever arise. A health care power of attorney or representative document clearly indicates who should call the shots when it comes to your medical care in the event that you cannot. Similarly, a durable power of attorney for financial decisions appoints an agent to manage your personal business such as banking, filing tax returns, and paying bills in the event that you become incapable of doing so. It is important to establish these appointments before an accident or unexpected event occurs so that your agent can quickly step in when the time comes.
Finally, you can use a living will to dictate how you wish to live out your final days. You may choose to receive life prolonging medical care even if a physician has determined that you are in a terminal state. Alternatively, you may choose to decline life-prolonging medical care once your condition has been deemed terminal, opting only for sufficient medical care to keep you comfortable for the remainder of your life. By putting your wishes on paper, you provide clear instructions for your family and loved ones who may otherwise face difficult, often controversial decisions as to your end-of-life care.
Estate planning is planning for living, not just dying.