Between packing suitcases, booking accommodations, and arranging a pet sitter, going on vacation requires a lot of preparation. While estate planning is probably not at the top of your to-do list, you should tick a few boxes in this area as well before you depart. Find out which points to address before the relaxation begins. 

3 Pre-Vacation Estate Planning Steps

1. Designate Beneficiaries 

If something should happen to you on your travels, who receives your assets? Determine where the contents of your savings accounts, investment portfolios, property, cars, and family heirlooms will go. In case you designate minor children as beneficiaries, you also need to appoint a guardian to look over them and an agent to handle their finances until they reach adulthood.

2. Complete Incapacity Paperwork

Illness or injury may leave a person physically or mentally incapacitated, which means they are unable to make important decisions for themselves. In this case, a trusted individual needs to determine your health care and financial matters. When it comes to medical decisions, you can include details like whether you want to be resuscitated.

3. Ensure Documents Are Accessible

Even the most comprehensive estate planning won’t do you any good if the relevant documentation can’t be found. Before you travel, make sure your attorney has the updated paperwork on file and let your loved ones know where they can find a copy, too. You should also have a list of all your accounts and passwords safely stored, and designate an individual who may access this information as needed.

Once you know your estate planning is done correctly and in secure hands, you can relax on vacation. Stayton Law has over 20 years of experience helping Oregon clients get their affairs in order. Attorney Jennifer L. Tiger is known for her reliable legal advice. She will guide you through the complicated estate planning process with confidence, clearing up any questions you have along the way. Learn more about her credentials online. For an appointment, call the law office at (503) 769-7741.