It really is true.

The only things we can absolutely count on is death and taxes.

Now, why in the world do we find it easy to talk taxes all day long, but just can’t voice the word death?

Live your life to the fullest, prepare, then, face the fact – we’re all going to pass away – nope – folks we’re gonna die…eventually…so, prepare for it.

Make that time is as easy on your loved ones as possible. You made sure the car had gas before letting your teenager drive it, didn’t you? Well, make sure you at least do that much preparation and thought to those who survive, when you die.

Health-Care Proxy gives the designated person who you specify, the authorization to communicate your wishes regarding end-of-life medical treatments. Medical Power of Attorney gives an individual you specify the authorization to make medical decisions for you in the event you are unable to make decisions for yourself.  Usually “Trusts” contain these documents – just make sure you have them, and distribute them to the proper individuals. 

Important – no – VERY important things to do:

Make a list for your executor – whomever you name to handle things after you die. You don’t have to hand all this information to your executor, but make sure they know exactly where you have placed the envelope that contains all this info. (And, no, don’t put it in a safe deposit box at your bank – whoever you designate to handle your affairs may not be allowed access to your box!)  I’ve got the password to my computer on the inside of Dick’s underwear drawer!

Things to put on an information list for your executor:

• The location of your will or Trust documents (which should have most of this info already listed within it).
• Where the deed to your home is. Or, if it’s mortgaged, who holds the deed and how much the payments are and when they should be paid.
• Names and contact information of family and friends (Another reason Dick will need to access to my computer – my address book.)
• Where you have filed all personal information, such as birth certificates, Social Security numbers, marriage licenses, etc.
• Name of the institution where you bank and where they can find the list of all of your account numbers.
• Location of all insurance papers and account numbers – Life, Home, Car and any others.
• Location where they will find a complete list of your assets along with the account numbers – such as house, cars, vacation home, savings account, checking accounts, IRA’s, investments, etc.
• How to turn your computer on and where you have placed the password! And the passwords to any programs they may need access to such as Quicken.

Okay – so I’ve given you some homework to do. Oh – one more thing – make sure that all members of your immediate family know how to pay the everyday bills – the TV, the phone, etc.

Make sure your partner actually knows how to write a check. Show them to write the dollaramount beginning clear to the left, leaving no space to the left, and to draw a line from thatamount to the end, so that numbers can’t be added onto at the beginning or the end. Nevermake out a check to “cash” – if you loose it and someone finds it, they can cash it.

I think it’s just downright unforgivable to never include your partner in the important job of keeping track of the finances. Sharing the chore will make them feel capable and secure.

Yes I’m a Senior Citizen!  I’m the life of the party …even if it lasts until 8 p.m.  I’m very good at opening childproof caps…with a hammer and I’m very good at telling stories…over and over and over.