Getting the news that you have to undergo major surgery is never easy. Preparing for absences from work, planning for childcare and household responsibilities, and reviewing your estate plan will be among the things you may be worrying about. But what if you have only a few weeks—or even days—to respond? Who should you call? How can you concentrate enough to get this work done? Make the most of your time by following these tips.

Who should you call?

After notifying loved ones of the impending surgery, you should call your estate planning attorney to ensure your documents are up-to-date and accurately reflect your current assets and wishes. Update any representatives and heirs in your will, and check the named beneficiaries on any insurance policies. If you do not have a will or trust in place, an attorney can usually draft a simple will to cover your most significant assets.

You should also contact your healthcare power of attorney to notify them of your surgery and review any changes to your wishes regarding healthcare decisions. If you do not have a healthcare power of attorney, now is the time to ensure it is executed. This can also be completed on short notice. 

What should you do?

At a minimum, you should attempt to have the following documents in place:

• living will

• healthcare power of attorney 

• financial power of attorney 

• medical records release (allowing the release of your medical records to other persons)

• will

• trust

• documentation of all accounts and the location of important documents

Short on time?

If you are short on time, focus on identifying key people you trust to act on your behalf if you are unable, including a healthcare power of attorney and a financial power of attorney. Clearly communicate your wishes to avoid confusion about what you would have wanted. 

If you have minor children, establishing a legal guardian is essential and can be done through a will. Keep in mind that while a simple will can be drafted quickly, states have varying requirements for will execution that may need to be considered when preparing it on short notice. 

Making a list of your assets, their locations, and any identifying information will help your loved ones locate your assets if necessary. You can also make sure that your attorney has copies of your documents and information, and provide his or her contact information to your loved ones so they can advise them as needed. 

We're Here to Help

While estate planning may be the last thing you want to do before major surgery, we are here to assist you in obtaining peace of mind knowing that your documents are in order. 

Contact Hartmann Law Today

If you have questions about incapacity planning, contact our office to speak to an estate planning attorney.

Take steps to start your Life and Legacy planning today!  Take action to ensure your voice is heard when you are unable to speak for yourself.  Make the decision to protect yourself, your loved ones, your business, your property.   

Schedule a call today with Hartmann Law.

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