A valid Oregon estate plan is for any adult, including people who don’t have kids

When you think of “estate planning,” you probably don’t picture a young, healthy professional, do you? That can especially be the case for people who don’t have kids in Oregon.

Many of us associate estate planning with older individuals, at least of retirement age. Thus, many people assume that they don’t even need to think about getting their legal affairs in order until later in life.

However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Young adults, even the healthy ones or the people people who don’t have kids, can still benefit from several aspects of the estate planning process.

There’s something we all have in common

There is one major thing that all of us have in common, no matter our age.

We are all susceptible to tragedy and accidents. Car crashes, natural disasters, house fires, and other events can affect any of us at any time.

If tragedy happens, what happens to you and to those you care about?

It is important to think about who you want in charge of your care (called your durable power of attorney for healthcare, or medical power of attorney). What type of care do you wish to receive, in the event that you will be unable to make these decisions?

If you want peace of mind, talk to your local Eugene estate planning attorney about drafting up a living will (also called an advance directive), and your power of attorney documents.

People who don’t have kids: Will you have the healthcare surrogate who’s right for you?

Remember: If you do not have these documents in place, you will be in the hands of the default.

Your parents or spouse will likely be named as your “healthcare surrogate.” The kind of medical care you receive may go above and beyond what you consider necessary.

Young adults and people who don’t have kids need to think about these things too

Many young people experience difficult relationships with their family members, or are unmarried/separated. Many young people also have preferences for the treatment they receive during incapacitation. Things like palliative care/pain relief, CPR and resuscitation, and radiation/certain drugs are options that you should be able to choose for yourself.

Creating a valid Oregon estate plan can be easier than you think

Estate planning for the young and childless is quite easy. There’s no need to put off getting your paperwork in order any longer.

With just a few simple documents, you can rest well knowing you’ve taken your well-being into your own hands. With the help of a qualified attorney, you can change documents such as living wills and powers of attorney.

As you get older, or have life changes such as children or a committed partnership, update your Oregon estate plan.

Start your Oregon estate plan whether or not you have kids

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