Put the "Big Four" to Work for You

Listed below are four important legal documents that most of us should consider in planning for our futures. #1, #2 and #3 are recommended for most people; #4 is optional. Of course, your own planning needs depend on your circumstances and wishes.

1. A Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, where you name a helper to make medical treatment decisions for you if you become incapacitated. This document should be combined with communicating with and educating your helper about your medical treatment desires, and your values and views. [For information on our Your Way guide, click here.]
2. A Durable Power of Attorney for Financial Matters, where you name a helper to manage financial affairs for you. Important: the helper must be trustworthy.
3. A Will, where you name your heirs (those who will receive your assets when you die) and your executor (person who will manage and distribute your assets when you die).
4. A Revocable Living Trust, where you name your heirs and your trustee (to manage your trust assets if you become incapacitated, and manage and distribute your assets when you die). Trust assets avoid probate.