Five documents every family should have before a health scare
A will, a durable power of attorney, and three more papers that spare your family agonizing guesswork.
By Susan Reyes6 min read
A sudden health crisis is the worst moment to discover that essential paperwork is missing. A handful of documents, prepared in advance, can spare your family agonizing guesswork.
The five to have ready
- A will that states how your assets should be distributed.
- A durable power of attorney for financial decisions.
- A health care proxy naming who can make medical choices.
- An advance directive, or living will, describing your wishes.
- A current list of accounts, policies, and key contacts.
About the author
Susan Reyes
Tax & Estate Columnist
Susan focuses on retirement taxation and estate planning, with an emphasis on the timing mistakes that catch new retirees off guard.
