Chapter 11: Organizing Your Estate Documents
Chapter 11 is primarily composed of a form on which to record all your vital information that those handling your affairs will need to know. A blank version of this form can be downloaded from this website.
Take the time to fill this out. It is a tremendous gift that you can give your loved ones. Being prepared for your death (or even significant debilitating event) can give a tremendous sense of personal security and greatly decrease the burden that would be suddenly forced upon your loved ones.
11-1 Your Estate Information Packet.
…John smiles. “No fooling the old man, huh? Dad, we need to have a serious talk about getting your affairs in order. I don’t like to talk about you being gone, but you raised me to be practical. When Karen’s aunt passed last year, Karen was the executor of the estate, and we had quite a hard time figuring out everything. It was bad enough dealing with the grief, but unfortunately we also had to deal with some squabbling amongst Karen’s cousins, some creditor demands, and the fact that neither Karen nor her cousins had really talked to Karen’s aunt about her final wishes.
John continues “Dad, although you may know about these items already, it would be time consuming and difficult for someone else to gather the facts, and despite their best efforts, they may not find it all or get it right. Preparing one master document containing key information will save your loved ones many hours of anxiety and work, and help ensure everything is found and your wishes are known and addressed.” …
11-2 Estate Planning.
What if you died tonight? Would those you leave behind know where to find all of your important documents, assets, obligations, friends, and professionals with whom you have dealt? Would they be able to easily take care of all your affairs?
This section is primarily composed of a form on which to record all your vital information that those handling your affairs will need to know. A blank version of this form can be downloaded from the companion website at www.fho50.com…
11-3 You Have Done the Work, Now Enjoy the Rewards!
You have made it! Congratulations! You are equipped with the knowledge and tools – now it is up to you…