We’ve had many questions come in recent days about estate plans during the corona-virus crisis. While this is not a time for panic, it is never a bad time to think about your estate plan and ensure you’re prepared for whatever may come your way.

A robust estate plan will include a number of documents that are designed to bring peace and ease during times of uncertainty. Our standard estate plan includes:

• Last Will and Testament
• Health Care Directive
• Power of Attorney

Each document has it’s own purpose and can be particularly helpful in times like these.

Powers of Attorney can be particularly helpful as they appoint another person to help manage their financial affairs while you’re still alive. This isn’t a relinquishment of your own power and authority, but rather calling in a second set of hands. As we’re all being encouraged to self-quarantine and bank hours are even more limited than before (what’s the deal with closing at noon on Saturdays anyways?), it may be useful to have someone on standby with the authority to legally access your information and accounts.

Health Care Directives are of even greater importance during a pandemic like this. If you need health care, but are unable to advocate for yourself and express your wishes for whatever reason, a duly-appointed health care agent can save the day and speak on your behalf and ensure you receive the care you need.

Lastly, a Last Will and Testament should be prepared (or updated) to ensure your affairs are in order in case a worst-case scenario comes. The Will lets you decide who should be in charge in the event of your passing, and for those of you with minor children, the Will  allows you to designate a guardian to take care of your children.

If you’ve been meaning to take care of your estate plan, but simply haven’t gotten around to it, take advantage of this quarantine and give us a call for a free consultation.