ESTATE PLANNING CONSIDERATIONS

Recently, I had a will execution. The estate was not large, the testator was a young person, but let us discuss what documents, when estate tax and medicaid/medicare/SSI/SSD issues are not involved, which should be part of an individual's estate plan:

1. Will
2. A Power of Attorney (NOTE: the rules change on the proper form on 9/1/09)
3. Health Care Proxy and/or Living Will
4. Medical Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (MOLST) Program
5. Do Not Resuscitate Orders
6. Standby Guardian Designation (if you have minor children)
7. Life Insurance Designations
8. Trusts
9. Property Transfers To Avoid Probate

Now each item mentioned is complex, there are many variations, etc. to each one - and, of course, always consult a lawyer. Many of these will be discussed later.