5 Documents to Prepare Before a Passing

Michael Bernardo • November 4, 2019

Preplanning for your funeral home needs in Aspen, CO is one way to make sure you are ready for your eventual passing. You also need to make sure that your prepare and look into these 5 important documents. If you prepare these, it will go a long way towards making sure your loved ones are not left with the task all on their own after you’re gone.

1. HIPAA Release – The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) is a law that states that all medical records are to be kept confidential between the doctor and the patient. In the event that you become incapacitated or pass away, you need to give your family access to your medical records. You do this by filling out and signing a HIPPAA Release form.

2. Healthcare Power of Attorney – A healthcare power of attorney (POA) document is a legal paper that allows someone else to make medical decisions for you if you are not able to yourself. Healthcare POAs are helpful in cases where patients suffer from terminal illnesses, temporary unconsciousness or loss of brain function. It’s a good idea to pick someone in your direct family or someone you trust to be your healthcare POA. Look into local laws, as some states mandate that any POA form has to be notarized with a professional notary, with other people present as witnesses.

3. Will – Your will is a document that clearly lays out who will receive all of your personal belongings and assets once you’re gone. In order to be valid, all wills must ills must:

  • Clearly lists your name, date of birth, and social security number, as well as clearly establishes itself as your will
  • Names an executor that will carry out your wishes to your specifications
  • Specifically identifies and lists any and all heirs
  • States all your assets, from bank accounts to estates, and indicated who will get what
  • Is signed by you and two or three witnesses

These stipulations must be met for a will to be valid, so it’s a good idea to consult an attorney. You can also draw up a living will just in case you are unable to make decisions or become terminally ill.

4. ICE Book of Important Documents – This document is a big help for families in the event of a loved one’s death or incapacitation, even though isn’t a formal document. An ICE book helps loved ones to gain access to important information and documents, so be sure to make one and keep it in a secure yet obvious place. Try and put documents in your ICE book such as:

  • Birth certificate
  • Tax returns going back 5 years
  • Medical and dental records
  • Social security card
  • Insurance information
  • Important passwords
  • Bank accounts

If you have any more questions about these documents, or about Aspen, CO funeral homes, Brown’s Cremation & Funeral Service is here to help. You can stop by and visit us at 904 N 7th St Grand Junction, CO 81501, or give us a call at (970) 255-8888 to learn more about what we can do for you.

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