Wills and Advance Medical Directives

I wanted to take a moment to encourage anyone who doesn't have a will to make an appointment with an attorney as soon as possible. You always think you have time to get all that done, and then one day it's too late and the people you leave behind are left to deal with consequences. I'm sure many (if not most) of us know stories about the nightmares that can result from someone dying without a will. I am in a situation currently that is not a nightmare, but it is going to be difficult, time consuming, and I suspect somewhat emotionally draining. As a result of this, I am spreading the word to my friends, family, and everyone else that they need to really make arrangements about how they want their affairs handled after they pass. If you already have a will, take some time to look it over and see if any changes need to be made. Family situations change.

Same thing with a medical directive. If your wishes about your medical care are spelled out for your loved ones, they won't have to make tough decisions and wonder if they did the right thing if/when the time comes you are no longer capable of making decisions for yourself.

Lastly, be sure to check beneficiaries on any retirement accounts, life insurance policies, etc., and be sure they are accurate and up to date. One quick example: I heard a story about a guy who got divorced. He later remarried and lived happily ever after...until he died. His will was in order, but he never changed the beneficiary on his life insurance and retirement account. Still had the ex-wife identified. I have no idea how that turned out, but even if the new wife prevailed and got the proceeds, how much time, money, and aggravation did it take?

Scrap on.

I am also of an advocate of wills and medical directives. It’s very important to have a clear and legal plan for yourself and loved ones.