05/12/2026
Estate planning is highly personalized, and each plan should be tailored to the individual client. Protecting your family and assets in the event of incapacitation or death does not have to be overly complex or expensive.
An estate plan can vary in complexity, but most plans are built around this simple foundation:
1. Last Will & Testament: A “Will” allows you to determine who will inherit your property and assets after death. Dying without a Will is called dying “intestate,” which means your assets will be distributed according to Nebraska default statutes. The intestate process can be lengthy and may result in assets being distributed in a way that does not reflect your wishes.
A well-drafted Will should clearly identify your assets and beneficiaries, specify who receives your estate (and if anyone is intentionally excluded), and name an executor so your assets and debts can be properly handled through the estate administration process.
Importantly, a Will also allows you to nominate a guardian for your minor children. If you have a young family and want a say in who would care for your child in the event of your death, a Will gives you the ability to make that decision rather than leaving it to the Court or another third party.
2. Financial Power of Attorney: A Financial POA allows you to appoint someone to manage your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. If you suffer a serious medical event or become disabled, it may become extremely difficult to manage bills, taxes, expenses, investments, and other financial matters. A Financial POA gives a trusted individual the authority to act on your behalf. Without one, it can be very difficult, and often require court involvement, for someone else to manage your affairs with banks, creditors, contractors, and other institutions.
3. Healthcare Directive / POA: A Healthcare Directive and Power of Attorney allows someone else to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to make them yourself. If you are non-responsive or otherwise unable to communicate your wishes, it can place a significant emotional burden on your family members who are left trying to make difficult decisions for you.
By using a healthcare directive and/or healthcare power of attorney, you can pre-declare your wishes, appoint a trusted decision-maker, and reduce uncertainty and stress for your loved ones.
There are other estate planning documents that may be appropriate depending on your individual circumstances, but I find the three above are useful for nearly everyone I meet with.
If you have questions about any of these documents or would like to learn more about getting an estate plan in place, feel free to reach out to me here on Facebook, at [email protected], or at 402-350-5344.
