“What-if” Planning Blog
Duties of an Executor of a Will
One of the tasks of creating a will is that the creator needs to name an executor and a backup executor. When the subject of the will dies, the executor is charged with making sure that all the wishes of the deceased are carried out properly. Depending on the complexity of the estate and/or how organized the deceased was, the job of an executor can be quick and easy or time-consuming and difficult. This should be a factor when considering whom you ask to play that role.
How Hurricanes Answer the Question, “Should I Have an End-of-Life Plan?”
Tropical storm Hilary hitting California is a reminder that disasters can strike anywhere at any time. It should also serve as motivation to have our affairs in order through end-of-life planning to protect family members from unnecessary hardships when an accident or illness impacts your family.
What is the Difference Between Palliative Care and Hospice?
What is the difference between palliative care and hospice? These two terms are often misunderstood and used interchangeably. In this week’s blog we describe the difference as they may come up when you complete your advanced directive and living will.
Living Trusts versus Wills
Wills and trusts are two legal documents that are used in end-of-life planning. In some cases, both may be needed to properly get your affairs in order. In other situations, one or the other may suffice and/or be advantageous over the other. While the goals of each are similar, how the goals are accomplished through each of these legal instruments is different.
Including Pets in End-of-Life Planning
While our main goal is to prepare “the survivors” for the death of a family member, sometimes beloved survivors are also pets. These furry, loyal friends deserve to be accounted for in our end-of-life planning.
"I've Got the Power"...of Attorney
It is important to understand the concept of “power of attorney.” Various versions of this legal document are recommended as part of your end-of-life planning.
Estate and Game Plan
Many people often use the term “estate plan” and “will” or “living trust” interchangeably, but they are, in fact, different concepts.
The Estate Planning Time
Just because we don’t have large and expensive kinds of assets, doesn’t mean we don’t have an estate and a need for estate planning. In this week’s blog, find out what an estate plan is and how you can get started.
Spring Time Renewal all Around
While we appreciate how the rain and snow in Oregon sustains a diverse wildlife while keeping the grass green, the lakes and rivers filled, and the flowers blooming, we’re looking forward to this year’s spring and its symbolism of rebirth and renewal.
I Came. I Saw. I Conquered
This week we look at how we can apply one of Julius Caeser’s most famous quotes to end-of-life planning, “Veni. Vidi. Vici.” I came. I saw. I conquered.
“St. Patty’s Luck of the Irish”
While we celebrate the “luck of the Irish” on St. Patrick’s Day, luck is practically non-existent when it comes to getting your affairs in order.
Top Nine End-of-Life Planning Mistakes
Mistakes are a part of life. Unfortunately, when it comes to end-of-life planning, we don’t get do-overs. We examine the top nine mistakes we and others in our support group made and how you can avoid them in your planning.