Last Will and Testament
Fee: $199A Last Will and Testament, commonly referred to as a will, is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets and affairs to be handled after your death. It allows you to express your wishes regarding the distribution of your property, the appointment of guardians for minor children, and the nomination of an executor who will oversee the administration of your estate.
Having a will is beneficial for several reasons:
- Asset distribution: specify who will inherit your property, bank accounts, investments, personal belongings and even digital assets. Without a will, your estate is subject to intestacy laws, which may not align with your preferences.
- Appointing guardians: if you have minor children, designate a guardian you trust who shares your values and parenting style.
- Executor appointment: name an executor to manage your assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute the remaining estate to your beneficiaries.
- Minimizing conflicts: a well-drafted will helps reduce disputes among family members or potential heirs.
- Peace of mind: know that your affairs are in order and your loved ones will be taken care of according to your wishes.
Power of Attorney
Fee: $199A power of attorney (POA) is a legally binding document that allows you to appoint someone to manage your property, medical, or financial affairs. Although it can be uncomfortable to think about needing one, a POA is an important part of any estate plan. Anyone over 18 can create a POA, and it's a common starting point for people who are ready to start formalizing plans for their future.
A POA is typically used by those who cannot manage their affairs, generally due to an illness, aging, a disability, or simply being away for an extended period of time.
Each type of POA gives your attorney-in-fact (the person who will make decisions for you, also called your "agent") a different level of control. Some POAs take effect immediately after signing, and others kick in if you become incapacitated. The type of POA you create dictates which affairs your agent has authority over until the document expires or you die.
Health Care Proxy
Fee: $199The New York Health Care Proxy Law allows you to appoint someone you trust (for example, a family member or close friend) to make health care decisions for you if you lose the ability to make decisions yourself. By appointing a health care agent, you can make sure that health care providers follow your wishes.
Your agent can also decide how your wishes apply as your medical condition changes. Hospitals, doctors and other health care providers must follow your agent's decisions as if they were your own. You may give your agent as little or as much authority as you want, and you may also give instructions they have to follow.
This form can also be used to document your wishes or instructions with regard to organ, eye and/or tissue donation.
Living Will
Call for pricingIn a living will, you can outline your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments, such as resuscitation (CPR), mechanical ventilation, artificial nutrition and hydration, and other medical interventions. You may specify under what circumstances you would like these treatments to be administered or withheld.
- Resuscitation (CPR): whether you would like CPR performed if your heart stops or you stop breathing.
- Mechanical ventilation: your preferences regarding a ventilator or other breathing support.
- Artificial nutrition and hydration: whether you would like tube feeding and IV fluids if you are unable to eat or drink.
- Pain management: your desires regarding pain relief and comfort measures.
- Antibiotics and other medications: your preferences in certain circumstances.
- Palliative care and hospice: your wishes to receive comfort-focused care.
- Organ and tissue donation: your willingness to donate, if applicable.
- Specific medical conditions: instructions for situations such as advanced dementia or terminal illness.
- Personal values and beliefs: cultural, religious or ethical considerations.
It's important to be as specific and clear as possible to ensure your wishes are accurately reflected. Remember, a living will is a personal document, and your choices should align with your own beliefs and values.
