Templates
Account Access, Closure, and Transfers
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What is It?
An account closure request is a formal communication submitted by an account holder to a financial institution or service provider, notifying them of the account holder's intent to close a specific account and providing the necessary information for the closure process.
When To Use This Template
Someone might use an account closure request template in the context of estate planning or transition/probate for various reasons, including:
Distribution of Assets
Simplifying Financial Affairs
Closing Joint Accounts
Avoiding Unauthorized Access
Streamlining Administration
Meeting Legal Requirements
Resolving Outstanding Transactions
Protecting Against Fraud
When using an account closure request template in the context of estate planning or transition/probate, it's essential to communicate with the relevant financial institutions, follow their specific procedures, and provide any necessary supporting documentation. Additionally, the executor or administrator may need to coordinate with legal professionals to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
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What is It?
A Notification of Passing is a formalized way to alert institutions, colleagues, and associates about the death of your loved one.
When To Use This Template
This template can be used to send notifications of a loved one’s death. It includes information on funeral information, memorial service information, and charitable giving information. Each section can be edited or deleted based on your specific circumstance.
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What is It?
A funeral logistics notification will alert those who need to know the time and place to pay their last respects for your loved one.
When To Use This Template
This template can be utilized to send information about funeral logistics to those who may attend. It also includes visitation and memorial service information, if applicable.
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What is It?
A health care provider notification will help streamline the process of canceling appointments and care after the death of your loved one.
When To Use This Template
Use this template to notify healthcare providers and request cancellation of all future appointments. This template also includes text to request all of their past medical records, if it is of interest.
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What is It?
A bank or financial institution notification will begin a conversation to protect and manage your loved one’s accounts after death.
When To Use This Template
Use this template to notify bank or financial institutions of a loved one’s passing. It is generic in nature and requests guidance for which department can assist with the next steps, which is dependent on your specific situation. (For example, will the account go to probate, does it have an identified beneficiary, etc…)
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What is It?
An Insurance Company Notification is a formal communication sent to the deceased individual's insurance providers, informing them of the policyholder's death and initiating the necessary steps to process any potential claims, updates, or changes related to insurance policies.
When To Use This Template
Someone might use an Insurance Company Notification template in the context of estate planning or when someone dies for various reasons, including:
Life Insurance Claims
Health Insurance Updates
Property or Auto Insurance Adjustments
Annuity or Pension Benefits
Travel Insurance Claims
Notification to Multiple Insurers
Avoiding Unnecessary Premium Payments
Facilitating Estate Settlement
Using an Insurance Company Notification template in these scenarios helps streamline the administrative aspects of estate settlement, avoids complications, and ensures that the necessary steps are taken to handle insurance matters efficiently and effectively after the death of an individual.
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What is It?
A Safety Deposit Box Access Request is a formal document submitted to a financial institution, seeking authorization to access the contents of a safety deposit box, often used in the context of estate planning or when someone dies to retrieve important documents, valuables, or estate-related items.
When To Use This Template
Someone might use a Safety Deposit Box Access Request template in the context of estate planning or when someone dies for the following reasons:
Locating Important Documents
Retrieving Valuables and Assets
Securing Personal Belongings
Managing Estate Affairs
Facilitating Probate Process
Accessing Key Information
Identifying Debts and Obligations
Charitable Bequests
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What is It?
A charitable bequest is a provision in an individual's will or living trust that designates a specific amount of money, a particular asset, or a percentage of the estate to be donated to a charitable organization upon the individual's death.
When To Use This Template
When you would like to designate a specific amount of money, a particular asset, or a percentage of an estate to be donated to a charitable organization upon the individual’s death. It's important for individuals considering a charitable bequest to consult with legal and financial advisors to ensure that their intentions are clearly and legally documented in their will or trust. Additionally, the charitable organization should be properly identified, and the bequest should comply with relevant laws and regulations to ensure its proper execution.
Executor/Transfer of Estate Related
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What is It?
An Affidavit of Heirship serves as a sworn legal document that attests to the identity of the heirs of a deceased individual, their relationship to the decedent, and the absence of a valid will, providing a basis for the lawful transfer of the decedent's assets to the rightful heirs.
When To Use This Template
An Affidavit of Heirship is typically used in situations where a person has passed away without leaving a valid will, and there is a need to establish the legal heirs to the deceased individual's estate. Here are common scenarios in which you might use an Affidavit of Heirship:
Intestate Succession
Real Estate Transfers
Simplified Estate Administration
Insurance Claims
Bank Accounts and Investments
Avoiding Probate
Unclaimed Property
Family Agreement
It's important to note that the use of an Affidavit of Heirship varies by jurisdiction, and the acceptance of the document by financial institutions, title companies, and other entities may also depend on local laws and regulations.
In some cases, additional documentation or legal processes may be required to fully transfer assets. Consulting with a legal professional is advisable to ensure compliance with local laws and the specific requirements of the situation.
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What is It?
A Renunciation of Executorship is a formal legal document in which a person named as the executor in a will declines or renounces the responsibility to administer the estate of the deceased.
When To Use This Template
This document is typically filed with the probate court and serves to notify all interested parties, including the court and potential beneficiaries, that the named executor will not be assuming the duties and responsibilities associated with managing and distributing the deceased's assets according to the will.
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What is It?
A Release of Claims form is a legal document that formalizes an agreement between two parties, typically involving the party releasing any present or future claims against the other party, often in exchange for some form of consideration.
When To Use This Template
In the context of estate transition or probate, a Release of Claims form may be used in several situations where individuals wish to settle potential disputes or claims related to the estate. Here are scenarios when someone might use a Release of Claims form template in the context of estate transition or probate:
Distribution of Estate Assets
Waiver of Inheritance Rights
Dispute Resolution
Creditor Settlements
Family Settlement Agreements
Executor's Actions
Challenges to the Will
Undue Influence Claims
Property Distribution
General Estate Disputes
It's crucial to note that estate laws and regulations can vary, and legal advice is highly recommended to ensure that the Release of Claims form aligns with the specific circumstances and jurisdiction.
All involved parties should fully understand the implications of signing such a document, and it's advisable to consult with legal professionals to navigate the complexities of estate transition and probate.
Guardianships
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What is It?
A Guardianship Designation for Minor Children allows parents to formally nominate individuals as legal guardians for their minor children in the event that both parents are unable to care for them.
When To Use This Template
When parents want to proactively plan for the care and custody of their minor children in case both parents are unable to provide care (due to death, incapacity, or other unforeseen circumstances).
Medical/Healthcare Related
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What is It?
A Hospital Visitation Authorization is a legal document that grants explicit permission to a designated individual, typically a friend or family member, allowing them to visit the person who is hospitalized during a specified period, especially in situations where the patient may be unable to communicate their preferences or in cases where hospital policies require such authorization for visitation.
When To Use This Template
The Hospital Visitation Authorization form is typically used in situations where an individual wants to grant explicit permission for a designated person to visit them during a hospital stay. Here are common scenarios when you might use this form:
Incapacitation or Limited Communication
Isolation or Restricted Visitation Policies
Emotional Support
Designating a Visitor in Advance
Ensuring Compliance with Hospital Policies
Patient Privacy Concerns
End-of-Life Situations
Avoiding Family Disputes
Emergency Situations
Special Circumstances
Remember that hospital policies and legal requirements can vary, so it's advisable to check with the hospital's administration and legal professionals to ensure that the form aligns with their policies and local regulations.
Additionally, it's important to update the form if circumstances change, and to keep a copy of the signed document readily accessible.
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What is It?
A Medical Information Release Authorization is a legal document that grants permission for the disclosure of an individual's medical records and health information to specified individuals or entities, allowing them to access and review the person's health-related information.
When To Use This Template
Someone might use a Medical Information Release Authorization template in estate planning to designate individuals who can obtain their medical records and health information. This is particularly important for ensuring that trusted individuals, such as family members or healthcare proxies, have the necessary access to medical information to make informed decisions on behalf of the individual if they become incapacitated.
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What is It?
A HIPAA Authorization Form is a legal document that grants permission for the disclosure of an individual's protected health information (PHI) to specified individuals or entities, as required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA).
When To Use This Template
Someone might use a HIPAA Authorization Form template in estate planning to designate individuals who can access their medical information, ensuring that trusted individuals have the necessary permissions to make informed healthcare decisions on their behalf if they become incapacitated.
Notifications of Passing
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Get The Template
What is It?
A Notification of Passing is a formalized way to alert institutions, colleagues, and associates about the death of your loved one.
When To Use This Template
This template can be used to send notifications of a loved one’s death. It includes information on funeral information, memorial service information, and charitable giving information. Each section can be edited or deleted based on your specific circumstance.
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What is It?
A funeral logistics notification will alert those who need to know the time and place to pay their last respects for your loved one.
When To Use This Template
This template can be utilized to send information about funeral logistics to those who may attend. It also includes visitation and memorial service information, if applicable.
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What is It?
A health care provider notification will help streamline the process of canceling appointments and care after the death of your loved one.
When To Use This Template
Use this template to notify healthcare providers and request cancellation of all future appointments. This template also includes text to request all of their past medical records, if it is of interest.
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What is It?
Use this template to notify bank or financial institutions of a loved one’s passing. It is generic in nature and requests guidance for which department can assist with the next steps, which is dependent on your specific situation. (For example, will the account go to probate, does it have an identified beneficiary, etc…)
When To Use This Template
A bank or financial institution notification will begin a conversation to protect and manage your loved one’s accounts after death.
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What is It?
An Insurance Company Notification is a formal communication sent to the deceased individual's insurance providers, informing them of the policyholder's death and initiating the necessary steps to process any potential claims, updates, or changes related to insurance policies.
When To Use This Template
Someone might use an Insurance Company Notification template in the context of estate planning or when someone dies for various reasons, including:
Life Insurance Claims
Health Insurance Updates
Property or Auto Insurance Adjustments
Annuity or Pension Benefits
Travel Insurance Claims
Notification to Multiple Insurers
Avoiding Unnecessary Premium Payments
Facilitating Estate Settlement
Using an Insurance Company Notification template in these scenarios helps streamline the administrative aspects of estate settlement, avoids complications, and ensures that the necessary steps are taken to handle insurance matters efficiently and effectively after the death of an individual.
Obituaries & End of Life Events
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What is It?
An obituary is a notice of a death, often published in a newspaper, that typically includes a brief biography of the deceased person.
When To Use This Template
Use this template to draft a concise tribute to commemorate the life of your loved one. The length of obituaries can be important to consider, as newspapers often charge by the length of the obituary.
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Get The Template
What is It?
An obituary is a notice of a death, often published in a newspaper, that typically includes a brief biography of the deceased person.
When To Use This Template
Use this template to draft a tribute to commemorate the life of your loved one. The length of obituaries can be important to consider, as newspapers often charge by the length of the obituary.
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What is It?
A Celebration of Life Location Printout is a concise, printable document providing the address and details of the venue or location where a post-funeral or memorial celebration will take place, intended to be handed out to attendees at the funeral or memorial service.
When To Use This Template
The printout is distributed at the funeral or memorial service to guide attendees to the location where a Celebration of Life event will be held, ensuring everyone has the necessary details to participate.
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What is It?
A funeral location printout can be distributed to help direct people to the funeral.
When To Use This Template
A funeral location printout is a document that provides detailed directions or a map to the venue where a funeral or memorial service will be held. This printout is particularly useful in several contexts:
Large or Complicated Venues
Guests Unfamiliar with the Area
Multiple Event Locations
Limited Mobile Connectivity
As Part of a Funeral Packet
Emergency Contact Information
Overall, a funeral location printout is a thoughtful and practical tool to ensure that all guests can arrive at the funeral service smoothly and without undue stress.
Offering Condolences
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What is It?
A note offering support is a heartfelt message expressing empathy, encouragement, and willingness to help or comfort someone facing challenges, grief, or difficult circumstances, with the intention of providing emotional solace and assistance during a trying time.
When To Use This Template
In the context of when someone dies, a note offering support template can be used in various situations to express condolences, empathy, and a willingness to provide assistance during the grieving process. Here are scenarios when someone might use a support template:
Condolence Cards or Letters
Funeral or Memorial Service
Virtual Condolence Messages
Grief Support Groups
Memorial Donation Acknowledgments
Post-Funeral Gatherings
Neighborly Support
Employee Condolence Messages
Extended Family Support
Church or Religious Community Outreach
Using a note offering support template in these contexts provides a compassionate and structured way to express condolences and extend a helping hand during a sensitive and challenging time of grief.
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What is It?
A sharing memories note is a heartfelt and personal message written by an individual to express and reminisce about cherished memories, experiences, or moments shared with someone special, often used to celebrate milestones, commemorate special occasions, or offer condolences during times of loss or grief.
When To Use This Template
In the context of estate planning or when someone dies, a sharing memories template can be used for various purposes to provide comfort, support, and a sense of connection during a difficult time. Here are some situations in which someone might use a sharing memories template:
Memorial Service or Funeral Program
Condolence Cards or Letters
Online Memorial Pages or Blogs
Legacy Letters or Memory Books
Family Gatherings or Memorial Events
Social Media Posts
Grief Support Groups
Legacy Projects
Using a sharing memories template in these contexts fosters a sense of community, preserves the memory of the departed, and provides comfort to those who are grieving.
It encourages a collective reflection on the positive and impactful moments shared with the person who has passed away.
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Power of Attorney
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What is It?
A Revocation of Power of Attorney document is a legal instrument used to officially and formally terminate or cancel a previously granted Power of Attorney, revoking the authority given to the appointed agent.
When To Use This Template
Someone might use a Revocation of Power of Attorney template in estate planning when they wish to update or change their appointed agent, modify the powers granted, or entirely revoke a previously granted Power of Attorney. This document ensures that only the most current and relevant Power of Attorney is in effect.
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What is It?
A Durable Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants an agent the authority to make financial and legal decisions on behalf of the person granting the power (principal), and unlike a regular Power of Attorney, it remains in effect even if the principal becomes incapacitated.
When To Use This Template
Someone might use a Durable Power of Attorney template in estate planning to ensure seamless continuity of financial and legal decision-making in the event of their incapacity. This document provides a trusted individual with the authority to manage their affairs, pay bills, and make critical decisions during periods of incapacity.
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What is It?
Power of Attorney for Healthcare is a legal document that grants a designated individual, known as the agent or attorney-in-fact, the authority to make healthcare decisions on behalf of the person granting the power (principal), particularly in situations where the principal is incapacitated or unable to make such decisions independently.
When To Use This Template
Someone would use a Power of Attorney for Healthcare template in various situations where they want to legally designate an agent to make healthcare decisions on their behalf in the event of incapacity or inability to communicate. Here are common scenarios when someone might use a Power of Attorney for Healthcare template:
Planning for Future Incapacity
Scheduled Medical Procedures
Chronic Illness or Terminal Condition
End-of-Life Decisions
Preventing Family Disputes
Military Deployment or Travel
Age-Related Planning
Alleviating Burden on Family
Living Will and Advance Directives
Legal Requirement for Medical Consent
It's important to note that the use of a Power of Attorney for Healthcare is highly individualized, and the document should reflect the specific preferences and circumstances of the person granting the power.
Additionally, the legal requirements for this document may vary by jurisdiction, so it's advisable to consult with legal professionals to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations.
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What is It?
A Financial Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants a designated individual, known as the agent or attorney-in-fact, the authority to manage financial matters and make decisions on behalf of the person granting the power (principal).
When To Use This Template
A Financial Power of Attorney template in the context of estate planning is commonly used in various situations to empower a trusted individual to manage financial matters on behalf of the person creating the estate plan. Here are scenarios when someone might use a Financial Power of Attorney template in the context of estate planning:
Planning for Potential Incapacity
Streamlining Financial Transactions
Real Estate Transactions
Ongoing Business Affairs
Estate Administration
Financial Decision-Making
Insurance Management
Payment of Debts and Expenses
Guardianship Avoidance
Family Harmony
Including a Financial Power of Attorney as part of an estate plan allows individuals to proactively address financial management considerations, both during their lifetime and in the event of incapacity. It's important to customize the document according to specific needs and seek legal advice to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations. Additionally, the document may need to be notarized for legal validity, depending on jurisdictional requirements.
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What is It?
A Limited (Special) Power of Attorney is a legal document that grants an agent specific and restricted powers to perform certain acts or make decisions on behalf of the person granting the power (principal), typically for a defined period or specific purpose.
When To Use This Template
Someone might use a Limited (Special) Power of Attorney template in estate planning for specific, time-limited, or purpose-specific transactions, allowing a trusted individual to act on their behalf in narrowly defined circumstances without granting broad, ongoing powers.
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What is It?
A Springing Power of Attorney is a legal document that becomes effective only upon the occurrence of a specified event or condition, typically the incapacity of the person granting the power (principal). This type of Power of Attorney is dormant until the triggering event takes place, at which point it "springs" into effect, granting the designated agent the authority to make decisions on behalf of the principal.
When To Use This Template
Someone might use a Springing Power of Attorney in the context of estate planning for various reasons, primarily to address concerns related to potential future incapacity. Here are situations in which a Springing Power of Attorney could be beneficial in estate planning:
Future Incapacity Planning
Preserving Autonomy
Specific Triggering Event
Privacy Concerns
Financial Decision-Making
Avoiding Immediate Delegation
Trustee or Executor Transition
Customizing Powers
Legal Compliance
Flexibility in Designation
It's important to note that the effectiveness of a Springing Power of Attorney is contingent on clearly defining the triggering event and the process for confirming the principal's incapacity.
Legal advice should be sought to ensure that the document complies with local laws and serves the individual's specific goals in their estate planning. Regular reviews and updates to the document are also recommended to account for any changes in circumstances or preferences.