Many people think estate planning is only for the wealthy or the elderly. In reality, every adult in Texas benefits from a basic plan. A good estate plan decides who receives your property, and it also decides who can speak for you if you become ill or injured and cannot speak for yourself.
Here are the core documents we recommend for most Texas adults.
1. Last Will and Testament
A will states who inherits your property and names an executor to handle your estate. If you have minor children, your will is also where you name a guardian for them.
Without a will, Texas intestacy laws decide who inherits. The results can surprise people. For example, in a blended family a surviving spouse does not always inherit everything. A will puts those decisions back in your hands.
2. Statutory Durable Power of Attorney
This document lets someone you trust manage your finances if you cannot: paying bills, handling bank accounts, managing property, and filing taxes. Without one, your family may have to go to court for a guardianship, which is slower, costlier, and public.
3. Medical Power of Attorney
A Medical Power of Attorney names a person to make healthcare decisions for you if you are unable to make them yourself. Choose someone who knows your values and can handle pressure in difficult moments.
4. Directive to Physicians (Living Will)
This document records your wishes about life-sustaining treatment if you have a terminal or irreversible condition. It spares your loved ones from guessing what you would want during an already painful time.
5. HIPAA Authorization
Privacy laws can keep doctors from sharing information even with close family. A HIPAA authorization lets the people you choose receive your medical information.
6. Designation of Guardian in Advance of Need
If you ever need a guardian, this document tells the court who you want to serve, and who you do not want to serve.
Should You Also Consider a Trust?
For some families a revocable living trust makes sense, especially if you own property in more than one state, want added privacy, have a family member with special needs, or want to control how and when children receive an inheritance. A trust is not right for everyone. We will help you decide whether it fits your situation.
Review Your Plan Regularly
An estate plan is not a “one and done” task. Review it after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, a move to Texas from another state, or the purchase of a home. Also remember that beneficiary designations on life insurance and retirement accounts pass outside your will, so keep them up to date.
Let Us Help You Protect Your Family
At The Mattis Law Firm PLLC, we help individuals and families across the Houston area put together clear, practical estate plans. Schedule a consultation or call us at (713) 936-9632.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading it does not create an attorney-client relationship. Please consult an attorney about your specific situation.
