Durable Power of Attorney & Patient Advocate Designations
Now that is a mouthful. Along with Wills and Trusts, these are the documents that make up the rest of your estate plan.
Durable Power of Attorney (Financial)
A Durable Power of Attorney appoints someone to make financial decisions on your behalf if for some reason you are unable to act on your own. This becomes vitally important because without this in pace, your family would have to go to court to seek a conservatorship if you become disabled. Conservatorships are court supervised and can be costly.
Patient Advocate Designation (Medical)
Similar to a Power of Attorney, a Patient Advocate Designation Appoints someone to make medical decisions on your behalf in the event you are unable to. This will also contain a HIPAA release, allowing your patient advocate to obtain your medical information, and any wishes you may have regarding end of life treatment.