Life and Death Planning: A Checklist

The Checklist

• Will – Prepare a document naming Beneficiaries; probate assets are distributed through superior court.
• Durable Power of Attorney – Prepare a Limited or General Power of Attorney for the handling of your affairs, to take effect if/when you become mentally disabled.
• Designated Agent – Identify a person to take care of responsibilities immediately after your death. (Sometimes called “Personal Representative.”) This can be included in your Will.
• Key Contacts – Make a list of the names and contact information for closest family and friends, lawyers, accountants, doctors, etc. (Label them: “sibling,” “friend,” “attorney,” etc.)
• Letter of Instructions – Prepare a letter that includes the location of your List of Key Contacts and Important Papers, and spells out immediate responsibilities regarding your home, bills, dependents, pets, funeral/burial/cremation, etc.
• Health-Care Directive (or Living Will) – Write a description of your end-of-life wishes; give copies to your doctor and spouse/family/Personal Representative.
• Physician’s Orders for Life-Sustaining Treatment (POLST) – Work with your doctor to write up your POLST (a form regarding the life-sustaining treatment you want or don’t want). Print on bright green paper, and post in a visible location in your home. Intended for first responders.
• Trust Agreement – If you choose, prepare a Trust Agreement naming Beneficiaries and Trustees, and the non-probate assets that will be distributed outside court.
• Organ Donation – If you choose, arrange to donate organs and tissues at your death.
• Death With Dignity Process – If you choose, make arrangements with physicians and pharmacists so you can get life-ending medication when you have less than 6 months to live.