Long Before a Death

Decide what should happen with your property, and name someone who will care for and raise your children or dependents if something should happen to you.

Appoint someone you trust to handle your legal and financial affairs if you should become unable to handle them yourself.

Create a financial safety net for your family or other named beneficiaries in case you should die suddenly or unexpectedly.

Minimize estate taxes and make sure that your assets are seamlessly transferred to your heirs when you die by establishing trusts.

Legally specify the medical care that you do or do not want in the future, and name someone to advocate for you at the end of life.

Make arrangements for the type of funeral you'd like to have, and pay for those arrangements in advance.

Imagine and pre-plan your "dream funeral," even if it's 50 years away, and talk to your family about what you're thinking.

Help your family settle your estate, pay taxes, and receive benefits when the time comes.