How did your gift go over on St. Valentine’s Day this year? Many of us run out of gift ideas to give our loved ones for Valentine’s Day. However, the Appleton Post-Crescent offers an idea that may not be too romantic but still focuses on doing something that will really help many people.
The article “Plan ahead to reduce stress on loved ones” provides a list of things to consider that would prove important when they will be needed:
Can you find your will, trusts, power of attorney, and any letters of instruction?
Does your spouse or your children have a list of your bank accounts, your estate planning attorney, CPA, banker, or financial advisor?
Does someone have your health care power documents in the event they are needed in an emergency?
Do you have a list of your life insurance policies or your retirement plan documents?
Copies of marriage licenses, birth certificates, and military discharge papers are all very important. You may know where they are, but does your spouse or children? Someone should be able to locate your tax returns, brokerage statement, and beneficiary information. What about your day-to-day bills and the location of your checkbook and savings accounts? Do your family members know who your doctor is? Is there a list of your heirs and who has financial powers available?
These are things you need to have ready and organized to make a difficult time easier on your family. Also, they need to understand your wishes and desires in case something happens.
Next year for Valentine’s Day, think about showing your love a little differently. Planning to make difficult times easier on the ones you love may be the best gift ever.
Reference: Appleton Post-Crescent (February 13, 2016) “Plan ahead to reduce stress on loved ones”
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