Life is full of surprises, and while we can't predict the future, we can plan for it. Ensuring you're prepared for any situation is the greatest gift you can give yourself and your loved ones.

Are you and your partner prepared for the unexpected twists life may bring? Whether you're blissfully in love or navigating the complexities of blended families, estate planning is crucial for securing your shared future!

Core documents, such as a will or a will and a revocable trust, and a health care power of attorney/living will/health care directive, are essential tools for securing your future and ensuring your wishes are honored. Regularly reviewing these documents – typically every three to five years – is crucial to keeping them aligned with your goals and adapting to changes in tax laws.

A living will and durable healthcare power of attorney are essential for making end-of-life healthcare decisions. Your living will allows you to express your choices regarding treatments when you're unable to communicate. A trusted caregiver or family member can be named as your durable healthcare power of attorney.

Besides the normal preparations for your child to attend college, you should have your child execute a Power of Attorney, Health Care Proxy, and a HIPAA Release Form. When young adults go off to college and venture out into the real world for the first time on their own, they may continue to need the assistance you always provided to them growing up.

The long-awaited changes to the POA form promise to ease barriers that the old form presented for New Yorkers planning for the future.

Changes went into effect on June 13, 2021.