A will allows a person to draft their last wishes in anticipation of their passing. Many people believe that an estate plan begins and ends by making a will. While a will is the most common document, there’s a lot more that can be added to an estate plan.
People can use estate plans to plan for their future healthcare, control how their assets are used and much more. Here’s what you should know:
Will
A will is a legal document that outlines how to handle a testator’s estate. In a will, the testator itemizes their assets and names beneficiaries, which is anyone who should inherit from the estate, such as a spouse, child, friend or charity.
The testator can also name an executor of the estate in their will. The executor is responsible for settling the estate. This role includes contacting beneficiaries, paying taxes and locating assets, for example.
Trusts
A trust is a legal arrangement that works similarly to a will. The grantor gives assets to a testator who is instructed to disperse them typically after the grantor’s passing. A trust can allow a grantor to set conditions that must be met before their assets are dispersed or used for specific causes, such as charities or pets.
Power of attorney
A power of attorney can be named to act on behalf of the testator should the testator become incapacitated. The power of attorney can make financial and medical decisions that are in the testator’s best interests in hopes that the testator recovers from their condition.
Child guardian
Parents may consider adding a child guardian to their estate plan. A child guardian could take guardianship of the testator’s child if the testator suffers a fatal accident or illness. The child guardian would then be responsible for caring for and raising the testator’s child.
Learning about each part of an estate plan can help you as you consider your options. You may benefit from reaching out for legal help to learn more.