Writing a will allows you to control who will receive your assets upon your death, but comprehensive estate planning involves much more than distributing your belongings. In addition to empowering others to act on your behalf if you’re physically or mentally incapacitated, your plan may also prevent family conflicts and ensure your health care wishes are respected. Below are some essential elements to include.

4 Crucial Estate Planning Documents

1. Last Will & Testament

Even if you have minimal assets, you should still prepare a will to ensure items of sentimental value fall into the right hands. Otherwise, your estate will be distributed according to a formula determined by state law, which may not conform to your wishes. Your will also provides an opportunity to nominate a guardian for your children or someone to care for your pets.

2. Durable Powers of Attorney

If a severe injury or illness leaves you unable to manage your affairs, your spouse or business partners may not be able to help without a durable power of attorney. These documents give those you trust the ability to make critical medical, financial, or business decisions on your behalf.

3. A Living Will

Living wills, also known as advance medical directives, ensure that your wishes regarding end-of-life care are respected, even when you’re unable to communicate with doctors. In these documents, you may leave detailed instructions regarding the use of extraordinary measures and life support, give consent for specific medical procedures, and describe acceptable outcomes.

4. Memorial or Funeral Instructions

Many people include instructions for their funerals in their will, but that may not be read until months after the ceremony. Most estate planning professionals recommend writing these wishes separately and distributing copies to your closest family members.

For more than 40 years, the legal team at Ronald D. Zipp Attorney at Law has been helping clients throughout New Braunfels, TX, plan for the future. With their in-depth estate planning services and wide-ranging legal expertise, you can rely on their guidance to ensure your estate plan meets all of your needs. Visit their website for an overview of their legal services or call (830) 629-5600 to speak with an attorney and schedule a consultation.