Traveling This Summer? Make Sure Your Estate Plan Is Ready
Summer often means vacations, road trips, and time away from home. While travel is something to look forward to, it’s also a smart moment to make sure your estate plan is up to date, especially before you leave town.
A few simple steps can help ensure your family and finances are protected while you’re away.
1. Review Your Incapacity Documents Before You Travel
Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after death. If an accident or medical emergency occurs while you’re traveling, the right documents can make all the difference.
Before you leave, confirm you have:
A financial power of attorney
An advance health care directive
A HIPAA authorization allowing loved ones to speak with doctors
These documents allow trusted individuals to make decisions quickly if you’re unable to do so.
2. Make Sure Your Agents Are Reachable
It’s important that the people you’ve named in your estate plan are:
Still willing to serve
Easy to contact
Aware of their role
Let them know if you’ll be traveling and how to reach you—or each other—in case of an emergency.
3. Check That Your Estate Plan Reflects Recent Life Changes
Summer often follows major milestones earlier in the year, such as:
Buying a home
Having a child
Getting married or divorced
If any of these apply, your estate plan may need updating before your trip to ensure it reflects your current wishes.
4. Organize Important Information
You don’t need to bring legal documents with you, but someone you trust should know where to find them.
Consider:
Keeping digital copies securely stored
Letting a trusted person know how to access key documents
Ensuring your attorney’s contact information is easily available
This can save time and stress if something unexpected happens.
5. Don’t Forget About Minor Children
If you have children, travel planning should include:
Confirming temporary caregivers
Ensuring guardianship designations are current
Making sure medical consent forms are available if children stay behind
These steps help ensure continuity of care while you’re away.
6. Peace of Mind Makes for a Better Trip
Knowing your estate plan is current allows you to fully enjoy your time away. A quick review before summer travel can prevent confusion, delays, and unnecessary legal complications later.
Plan Ahead Before You Go
If you’re traveling this summer, now is a great time to review your estate planning documents or create a plan if you don’t already have one.
Need Help?