How to Make a Living Will for Free
Creating a living will is an essential step in estate planning, ensuring that your medical wishes are respected in the event of your incapacity. A living will, also known as an advance health care directive, outlines your preferences regarding medical treatment and end-of-life care. While hiring a lawyer to draft a living will can be expensive, there are several free resources available to help you create one on your own. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making a living will for free.
1. Research Online Resources
The internet is a treasure trove of free resources for creating a living will. Many websites offer free templates and instructions on how to draft a living will. Some popular options include:
– Cornell Legal Information Institute
– Nolo
– LawHelp
These websites provide comprehensive information on living wills, including state-specific forms and instructions.
2. Choose a Template
Once you have found a reliable source, choose a living will template that suits your needs. Most templates will cover the following topics:
– Medical Treatment Preferences: Outline your wishes regarding life-sustaining treatments, such as artificial respiration, dialysis, and feeding tubes.
– End-of-Life Care: Specify your preferences for pain management, hospice care, and palliative care.
– Decision-Makers: Identify individuals who will make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
3. Customize Your Living Will
After selecting a template, customize it to reflect your personal preferences. Be as specific as possible when outlining your wishes, as this will help your loved ones and healthcare providers understand your intentions.
4. Review and Revise
Before finalizing your living will, review it carefully to ensure that it accurately reflects your wishes. If necessary, make revisions to clarify any ambiguous statements.
5. Sign and Witness
Once you are satisfied with your living will, sign it in the presence of two witnesses or a notary public. The witnesses or notary must be over the age of 18 and not related to you by blood or marriage.
6. Store Your Living Will Safely
Keep your living will in a secure location where it can be easily accessed by your loved ones and healthcare providers. Consider storing a copy with your attorney, a family member, or in a safe deposit box.
7. Update Your Living Will
As your life circumstances change, so may your medical preferences. It is essential to review and update your living will periodically to ensure that it remains current.
In conclusion, creating a living will for free is a straightforward process when you utilize the numerous free resources available online. By following these steps, you can ensure that your medical wishes are respected and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
