Estate Read Time: 3 min

Critical Estate Documents

Financial Documents

 Joint OwnershipDurable Power of AttorneyLiving Trust
What does it do?Enables you to own property jointly with another personAuthorizes someone to handle legal and financial decisions if you become incapacitatedHolds your belongings until your death
Can it authorize someone to handle your financial affairs if you are unable to communicate?Generally, nocheckGenerally, no
Can it specify how you want your belongings transferred after your death?check
But only those belongings owned jointly
Generally, nocheck
Is it private?checkcheckcheck
When does it go into effect?As soon as joint ownership is recordedEither immediately or upon a specific trigger event (such as your incapacity)When the document is signed and the trust is funded
Does it require court involvement?NoNoNo

Health Care Documents

 Living WillPower of AttorneyPower of Attorney for Health Care
What does it do?Provides specific instructions about medical care and artificial life supportAuthorizes someone to handle legal and financial decisions on your behalfAuthorizes someone to make health care decisions on your behalf
Can it outline your medical wishes if you are unable to communicate?checkGenerally, noGenerally, no, but it does authorize someone to make medical decisions on your behalf
Can it authorize someone to handle your financial affairs if you are unable to communicate?Generally, nocheckGenerally, no
DurationNo expiration; can be revised or revoked at any timeDepends on specifics in the document; can be revised or revoked at any timeDepends on specifics in the document; can be revoked or revised at any time
Is it private?checkcheckcheck
When does it go into effect?Upon your incapacityEither immediately or upon a specific trigger event (such as your incapacity)Either immediately or upon a specific trigger event (such as your incapacity)

Note: Power of attorney laws can vary from state to state. An estate strategy that includes trusts may involve a complex web of tax rules and regulations. Consider working with a knowledgeable estate management professional before implementing such strategies.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

Have A Question About This Topic?

Thank you! Oops!

Related Content

Counteracting Capital Gains with Tax-Loss Harvesting

Counteracting Capital Gains with Tax-Loss Harvesting

You may have heard the phrase "tax-loss harvesting." A financial professional may be able to provide some guidance.

Navigating Retirement Pitfalls

Navigating Retirement Pitfalls

Why are they made again and again? Making sense of these errors in judgement.

Assess Life Insurance Needs

Assess Life Insurance Needs

How to help determine life insurance needs to provide for your family after you pass away.