As you get older, you will need to think about planning your estate. This is an issue that needs to be tackled while you still have the power to plan for it. There are a number of legal issues you will have to handle, so here are some of the most important documents that you need in Pennsylvania.
Durable power of attorney
The first document you will need for successful estate planning will be a durable power of attorney. The person that you appoint to this position will have power over a wide range of issues. These can include matters related to banking, real estate, financial investments, government benefits and more. Be very careful about whom you appoint to this position.
Healthcare power of attorney or proxy
The next essential document will relate to whom you give the power of attorney to in matters regarding your healthcare. This is the person who will make sure your wishes are carried out if you lose the power to speak for yourself.
Living will
You can make a living will to inform doctors and healthcare workers of your final wishes. These decisions will be carried out by your healthcare attorney or proxy.
Do not intubate, do not resuscitate
If you do not want to be resuscitated or to be kept alive via a feeding tube, this is the order to sign. It makes your wishes in this regard known to your physician.
Will or trust
If you have specific issues, such as planning for the needs of a blended family, the best way to meet them is to prepare a will or trust. This will be the document that enables you to control the distribution of your various properties and assets.
Advance directives
These can be any documents that you prepare for the purpose of giving instructions concerning your medical care and comfort at the end of your life. The documents will detail your wishes in case you can’t communicate them.
Estate planning can include many different documents. It’s important to start the process early so that you’ll have plenty of time to get things organized.
