A comprehensive estate plan addresses not only what happens after death but also what happens during your lifetime if you become incapacitated.
Two key documents help address this situation:
Durable Power of Attorney
Allows someone you trust to manage financial matters on your behalf.
Healthcare Directive or Healthcare Power of Attorney
Allows someone to make medical decisions for you if you are unable to communicate with your doctors.
Without these documents, family members may need to go to court to obtain authority to make decisions.