Summertime is known as the perfect, relaxing time. Beaches, camping, family vacations and late nights. But unfortunately, 2020 hit us with the unexpected. This year, as we go back to school, teachers are not writing school supply lists…teachers are writing their own Wills! It is a terribly anxious time for our Florida teachers and our hearts go out to all of them.
To help with their planning and to help ease their anxiety, as an estate planning attorney, I’m providing my own “back to school” list for Florida teachers, as they begin writing their Wills:
- Check beneficiary designations on all accounts-make sure they align with what you want (children cannot inherit over $15,000, so see number four below).
- Obtain a will or trust.
- Name custodial guardians for your own children.
- Name financial guardians for your children either through a Will or through a Trustee.
- Leave directions on how to best care for your kids. We have a Kid Care Package available for parents that provides instructions to caretakers, letters to emergency personnel, temporary guardian forms and more.
- Use an Estate Plan Organizer to organize it all in one place (Free Download Home Page).
- Get Healthcare documents squared away. You will need a Healthcare Surrogate (Get your free one here), Living Will and a HIPAA form. We will also send you some freebies like wallet cards.
- Obtain a Durable Financial Power of Attorney.
Teachers, I know that the status and news changes daily. It is disheartening that you must worry about writing your Wills as you plan to go back to school. However, estate planning is a great idea at any time. We hope you, and all of us, find comfort and peace of mind in the next couple of weeks.
Read our past blogs for more helpful information:
Reasons to get a Testamentary Trust
Should I choose a Will or Trust?
Your Estate Planning Checklist
Considerations to Make as you Plan
Lori Vella is an Estate Planning and Business Attorney. She works virtually throughout Florida and New York, but has her home office in Tampa, Florida. She is mom to a little boy which ignited the passion for helping other families. She and her son enjoy car rides, playgrounds and taking mini-adventures. They also have an organic garden that surprisingly yields vegetables. Lori considers herself well-versed in Seinfeld and welcomes any trivia!
Disclaimer: The Law Office of Lori Vella’s website contains general information directed to Florida residents. This firm does not intend to give legal advice through its pages and/or blog. If you need legal advice, we encourage you to find an attorney licensed in your state. This language on this website does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and this firm.