One major misconception is we simply can tell loved ones what we want to happen for the purposes of health or property distribution and family members can ensure that those wishes are followed.
It is very important for unmarried couples to execute estate planning documents to make their wishes clear concerning the rights and responsibilities of their significant other.
Data from sources like the U.S. Census Bureau shows in no uncertain terms that the U.S. population has grown older over the prior two decades.
The word ‘paperwork’ has become an anachronism; most legal and business documents today are created, signed and stored digitally. However, a few actual pieces of paper remain vitally important to keep.
You’re single, and you don’t have an estate plan or even a will. Perhaps you think you don’t need either because you’re not wealthy and don’t have children.
Although there is certainly no shortage of people with selfish or malevolent intent, a great number of estate plans that end in disaster are due to unintended consequences.
Everyone age 18 and over should have a health care proxy document signed (think children off to college, and yourself, not just an elderly parent).
Aging solo is about those individuals who are widowed or not married, live alone and have no family or none they can count on. They are going through the last years of their lives on their own. It can be just fine until one’s health declines and the usual activities and access to friends get out of reach.
When you’re in the midst of a divorce, you’re probably not thinking about estate planning or your will. However, if you’re divorcing, you should think about the impact a divorce can have on an estate plan.
It isn’t just about wills and funerals—it is a reflection of your values, your goals for healthy aging, and the hopes and dreams you have for those you love.
