Estate Planning Documents You Shouldn’t Wait On (Especially If You Love Your People)
Let me tell you something I’ve seen one too many times in my notary work here in Indiana…
Folks scrambling—grieving—because their loved one passed away without putting key documents in place.
No Will.
No Power of Attorney.
No instructions.
Just... chaos.
Look, I know estate planning sounds like something only wealthy people or folks “on their way out” need to think about. But I’m here to tell you: if you’re over 18 and you care about what happens to you, your family, or your stuff—this is for you.
Let’s walk through the estate planning documents you shouldn’t wait on, and why now is better than later (or never).
1. Last Will & Testament
What it is: Your final say on who gets what when you pass away—and who makes it happen.
Why it matters: Without a will, the state decides everything. That means your belongings, your home, even your kids if they’re minors... all left up to Indiana's default laws.
Real talk: I’ve notarized wills in hospital rooms, living rooms, and even parking lots. It's not about fear—it's about love. A will is a gift to your family.
2. Durable Power of Attorney
What it is: A legal doc that lets someone you trust handle financial or legal matters for you if you can’t.
Why it matters: Life is unpredictable. Accidents. Illness. Surgery. If you can’t act for yourself, this person steps in—but only if you’ve already given them the power to do so.
Pro tip: Banks and insurance companies don’t care about verbal promises. They need paperwork.
3. Advance Healthcare Directive / Living Will
What it is: Your clear instructions on medical care if you’re unable to speak for yourself.
Why it matters: It takes pressure off your loved ones during scary times. They don’t have to guess what you'd want—they'll know.
Bonus: You can include your wishes around life support, organ donation, and end-of-life care.
4. HIPAA Authorization
What it is: Permission for named people to access your medical info.
Why it matters: Without this, even your spouse or adult child might be locked out of your medical updates.
Quick fix: It’s a simple doc, but powerful when time is of the essence.
5. Quitclaim Deed (if transferring property)
What it is: A document used to legally transfer real estate between people (like from parent to child, or into a trust).
Why it matters: You can protect your home and avoid probate later on—but only if it’s done right, notarized, and recorded.
Heads up: Indiana has specific rules around this. It's worth checking with a real estate or estate attorney.
So, Why Do People Wait?
“I’m too young for this.”
“I don’t have anything of value.”
“I’ll do it next year.”
“We started but never finished.”
Sound familiar?
Here’s the truth: estate planning isn’t about how much money you have—it’s about making decisions while you still can.
It's about control.
It's about peace.
It’s about protecting the people you love.
Don’t Wait for a Wake-Up Call
When families are grieving, the last thing they want is to untangle paperwork, guess your wishes, or deal with legal messes.
A notarized, legally prepared estate plan is one of the kindest things you can do for them.
Final Thoughts (From Someone Who’s Seen It All)
As a notary public and apostille specialist, I’ve been the one people call when their backs are against the wall.
I’ve seen last-minute documents rushed to nursing homes, hospitals, even jails.
I’ve also seen the relief on faces when everything is in order.
So if this blog lights a fire under you—good.
Don’t let perfection or procrastination keep you from taking care of your business.
💡 Want help getting started?
If you need a trusted mobile notary in Indianapolis to come to you—home, hospital, or office—I’ve got you. No pressure. No pitch. Just help.
You can reach me directly at:
👉 (317)438-3183 or Kerrie@signaturemoveindy.com
Share this with someone you love. Because we all need a little nudge sometimes.
With heart,
Kerrie L. Smith
Notary Public & Owner
Signature Move Notary Services, Indianapolis, IN
