Ok, I found a few of your other post, so I think I now have a better understanding. My dad had a POA written up by his lawyer in the 90's, when mom was still alive. Last year, I took the old POA and typed it into my computer. I changed the names, dates, etc. then I printed it out and had dad sign and notarized it (while he was clear headed). This saved me the cost of hiring the lawyer to make only a few changes.
Thanks Es0torok, We had wills and POAs written years ago but the attorney recently said I have to go through probate $400 at least because my Dads name is the only one on the deed. I attended an elder law seminar and they touted the ease of a trust so all assets are assigned and the state doesn't get involved. It is so frustrating to find a lawyer that will help for a reasonable amount! I am tempted to use legal zoom but worried I will miss something important and end up losing my moms assets.
I thought a Will was all that is needed to handle the financial issues after death. I'm already on all dads bank accounts, and have durable POA. I guess I need to do more research.
I found a site on the web that has a LOT of legal forms for you use. The site tidyforms. They have them by state or by type of legal document you need. In addition to the forms you need, they also have example documents to help you.
After digging around the AARP site, I think if you have a Durable POA and Will, you will not need a living Trust.
I'm also using it as a template for my own POA.
We had wills and POAs written years ago but the attorney recently said I have to go through probate $400 at least because my Dads name is the only one on the deed. I attended an elder law seminar and they touted the ease of a trust so all assets are assigned and the state doesn't get involved. It is so frustrating to find a lawyer that will help for a reasonable amount! I am tempted to use legal zoom but worried I will miss something important and end up losing my moms assets.
After digging around the AARP site, I think if you have a Durable POA and Will, you will not need a living Trust.