Estate Planning as a Career

We don’t tend to think about any formal records relating to death other than a Will or sometimes a Power Of Attorney.

My husband’s Aunt was killed in a road accident this week and we’ve just found out. It’s a pretty sad story really.

She was a very young 73 year old who had never married - then around 5 years ago she met a man who was her other half and it was quite amusing to hear of her looking for a double bed.They travelled and moved around and did all sorts of things together. Five years of happiness and then gone in an instant.Collision between a campervan and a motor home.

She was killed and he is pretty badly knocked around and still in hospital.

But, of course the hardest thing will be for him to recover from her loss and the fact that he was driving.Whether he was at fault or not - he will never forgive himself.

The good news is that she had a Will and he won’t have to go through a hard time working out what happens where or who gets what.But, what about all the other things.The list of her insurance policies, bank accounts, credit cards, details her accountant, her doctor, list of family contacts etc.

These are many records and details that would make it easier for someone to pick up the pieces, notify the appropriate people, seek assistance from relevant authorities etc. A Will and an Enduring Power of Attorney are critical items.

Please think of those that may be left behind and make it easier on them.If you don’t have these records in place and easily accessible with someone trustworthy (Public Trustee etc) then PLEASE do it.Make it a priority task within this week and get it done.

We don’t want to be mortal - but of course we are and believe it or not - you ARE going to die.Just hopefully not soon and of course after a great deal more gratification and contribution to this world.

Ha (more…)