People in New York generally understand the importance of keeping their essential documents secure — for example, safeguarding their passports and birth certificates. In the same way, keeping wills and other estate planning documents safe is critical. Here are some storage tips for estate planning documents.
First, it is paramount that other people can find a person’s estate plan if something were to happen to him or her unexpectedly. Certain documents, like a living will, power of attorney or health care power of attorney, may be needed immediately. In addition, other documents, such as a person’s last will and testament might have to be filed in court.
As a general rule of thumb, it is a good idea for people to leave their original estate planning documents with the attorneys who created them. The reason for this is because an attorney can store these important documents in a secure location, which may be helpful in the event that home copies of the document end up being lost or destroyed. In addition, having an electronic copy of an estate plan is a wise idea.
Putting together wills and other documents, as well as storing them appropriately, can understandably seem like overwhelming tasks. However, an attorney in New York can provide the guidance needed to complete both of these tasks quickly and effectively. In the end, a well-thought-out and secure estate plan may help to ensure that one’s financial responsibilities are fulfilled and that any medical wishes are upheld if the individual should become incapacitated. Likewise, it can ensure that one’s assets end up in the intended hands at the appropriate time.