I have quite a few clients retiring this year, so thinking about their estate is coming front and center.
There are a few basic items everyone should have in place to make sure things move smoothly if something adverse happens.

1. Make sure all of your accounts have current primary and contingent beneficiaries listed. Even your bank accounts can have beneficiaries added to them.
2. Make sure you have a Living Will: I call this the “feed me- don’t feed me” will. A Living Will states to what extent you want medical treatment if you are incapacitated.
3. Durable Power of Attorney: Most of us are familiar with a regular Power of Attorney, the Durable Power of Attorney allows someone to act on your behalf if you cannot speak for yourself.
4. Florida Medical Surrogate: In Florida, a healthcare surrogate is a legally designated representative who can make medical decisions on behalf of an individual who is unable to do so themselves due to incapacity.

These basic items will make your life and those of your loved one easier during trying times.

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