10/25/2026
Estate planning often centers on what happens after you're gone. But some of the most crucial documents are the ones that protect you while you’re still here.
Imagine if illness or injury made it impossible for you to manage your own affairs.
Without the right paperwork, your family might need a court to appoint someone to act on your behalf. This process, a guardianship or conservatorship, is public, can be costly, and may leave you with no say in who is chosen.
There are key documents designed to avoid this situation:
A durable power of attorney lets you name someone to handle your finances. The word "durable" means it stays effective even if you become incapacitated.
A healthcare power of attorney (or healthcare proxy) appoints someone to make medical decisions for you when you’re unable.
A living will outlines your wishes for end-of-life care, so your loved ones aren’t left uncertain.
And a HIPAA authorization lets your doctors share your medical information with those you trust.
Because laws and terms vary by state, these documents should be created with the help of a qualified estate planning attorney.
Please don’t leave this important planning unfinished. The people who would carry that responsibility are the ones you care about most.