Haven't done your estate planning? Here are the documents everyone should have

Estate planning is one thing that everyone has (or should have) on their to-do list but it is too often pushed off. While some folks may required complicated estate plans, everyone should have, at least, a will, a power of attorney, and a health care proxy. A brief explanation of each is below.

• A will, at its core, allows you to direct how your finances will be handled after you pass and who is responsible for the administration of your wishes. Even more importantly, for those with minor children, a will allows you to make a considered choice in choosing a guardian for your children, rather than letting the courts decide.

• A power of attorney designates someone you trust to make financial decisions and sign documents on your behalf in the event that you become ill, incapacitated, or otherwise unavailable.

• A health care proxy appoints someone to handle your medical decisions, including end of life care, if you are too ill to communicate or make your preferences known.

Estate planning can come with tough conversations and decisions, but it’s something everyone should do before it’s too late. Levine Law can offer you guidance that comes from decades of experience. Visit us at www.levinelawma.com