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might include a living will, a financial power of attorney, a living trust, and beneficiary designations. An estate plan can be particularly helpful in the case of multiple marriages, business ownership, specific charitable donations, or specific requests for health or property. It can also ensure wishes are carried out and that assets are distributed as designated.
Living Will A living will is a document that describes the type of care one would want if incapacitated and cannot speak for themself. This can assist the family with difficult decisions and avoid confusion. A financial power of attorney allows for a designated appointee to handle financial affairs in the event of incapacitation. They can make financial decisions in accordance with the instructions defined in the estate plan.
Living Trust A living trust is a document created during one’s life where a designated person, the trustee, is given responsibility for managing that individual’s assets for the benefit of the eventual beneficiary. It is designed to allow for the easy transfer of assets, thereby avoiding probate. A living revocable trust allows someone to be their own trustee and allows for changes in beneficiary at any time.
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