In honor of Estate Planning Awareness week, we encourage you to ask the question: What would happen if you couldn't make your own decisions tomorrow?
Estate Planning Awareness Week is a reminder that financial planning isn't just for the wealthy - it's for anyone who wants peace of mind. Two key documents, a Will and Power of Attorney, ensure your wishes are honored even when you can't speak for yourself.
Will vs. Power of Attorney
| Will | Power of Attorney (POA) | |
|
Who is it for? |
Your family and loved ones | You and your affairs |
| What does it cover? | Inheriting property, taking care of minor children, and carrying out final wishes | Paying bills, managing accounts, selling property, making medical decisions |
| When is it implemented? | After your death | When you're alive (but often incapacitated) |
| Why is it important? | Outlines how your property and belongings are distributed after your death. |
Authorizes someone to make financial and/or healthcare decisions on your behalf |
Unique Advantages
Most people think these documents are just legal formalities, or that they don't need one yet because they're young - but they actually open doors to greater flexibility and protection in ways you might not expect.
Even though they serve different purposes, a Will and a Power of Attorney work hand-in-hand to protect you and your family from uncertainty. Here’s why you shouldn’t have one without the other:
1. You have control over who handles your affairs and decisions.
In a will, you name your executor and guardians to ensure your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are cared for. With a POA, you choose who you want to represent you in financial, legal, or medical matters if you’re unable to do so yourself. Without these documents, the court may step in to make decisions on your behalf - and it might not be the people you would have chosen. By planning ahead, you retain control and provide clarity for those you care about most.
2. You can prevent unnecessary roadblocks.
Without a POA, your loved ones may be unable to make important decisions on your behalf when the need arises. This can create delays, confusion, and even legal complications during stressful times. By establishing a POA in advance, you give a trusted person the authority to act in your best interest, ensuring that your affairs are handled smoothly and according to your wishes. Your loved ones can then:- Access your financial accounts to pay bills.
- Manage real estate or investments.
- Handle insurance or tax issues.
3. You can clearly detail medical preferences.
A POA often works hand in hand with an advance directive, letting you define how decisions should be made if you’re unable to communicate your wishes. Together, these documents ensure that your financial, medical, and personal affairs are handled according to your preferences. By clearly outlining your choices and selecting someone you trust to act on your behalf, you can feel confident that your voice will be heard even when you can’t speak for yourself including:
- What kinds of medial or life-saving treatments you want (or don't).
- Your preferences for end-of-life support, organ donation, or comfort care, helping your loved ones avoid guessing during a stressful situation.
4. You can leave personal touches in your will.
It isn’t all about the money - you can also include the things that carry sentimental or emotional value. These touches help your loved ones feel connected to your intentions and memories, reminding them that your legacy goes far beyond financial assets. It’s about sharing who you are, not just what you own. You can include things like:
- Meaningful gifts or keepsakes to specific people.
- Personal messages.
- Wishes for pets, digital assets, or social media accounts.
This adds a personal touch, making the experience feel less transactional and more meaningful. When your plans or messages reflect genuine thought and care, it shows your loved ones that they’re valued beyond the formalities of paperwork or procedures. It turns what could be a purely administrative process into something heartfelt - one that carries your voice, values, and personality, leaving a lasting sense of comfort and connection.
5. You can avoid arguments.
Clear instructions reduce confusion and prevent potential disputes among family members during an already difficult time. By clearly outlining your wishes, you make it easier for your loved ones to know exactly what you want - whether it’s how to handle your estate, make medical decisions, or carry out final arrangements. This not only provides them with guidance and reassurance but also helps preserve harmony and understanding within the family when clarity matters most. It tells them:- Who's in charge.
- What your wishes are.
- How to carry them out.
6. Future updates will be simple.
Once your basic documents are in place, updating them is very straightforward. Just take a quick review after major life events such as marriage, new child, move, or job changes to ensure that your plan reflects your life.
What Now?
Having both a Will and POA doesn't just protect your assets, it protects your voice. They give you the freedom to choose who speaks for you, how your legacy is handled, and how your loved ones are cared for, giving you the opportunity to enjoy life to its fullest.
Estate planning isn’t just about preparing for the future — it’s about protecting the people and values that matter most. Whether you’re creating your first Will or updating your Power of Attorney, now is the time to make sure your wishes are clear and legally secure.
Radiant is excited to partner with Legal Karma to provide affordable estate planning services to members. This partnership ensures that you can easily, and cost-effectively, create an estate plan that protects your assets and ensures your wishes are carried out. For a limited time, we're offering 30% off Legal Karma Estate Planning services - be sure to act now!