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Estate

Wills & Estate Basics

Putting your wishes in writing is one of the kindest things you can do for the people you love. Here are the basics in plain language - what to have, and why it matters.

The Aging Veteran Library3 min read
A senior couple calmly reviewing their will and estate documents together at their kitchen table

The short version

  • A will, a durable power of attorney, and a health care directive are the three basics.
  • Keep beneficiary designations current - they often override what your will says.
  • Tell your family where your DD-214 and important papers are kept.

01Why this matters

No one likes to think about it, but a little planning now spares your family confusion and stress later. Putting your wishes in writing keeps the decisions in your hands, not a court's.

This page explains the basics in everyday words. It is information only - for a document that fits your exact situation, a local estate attorney or legal-aid program is the right partner.

02The three documents almost everyone needs

Most estate plans start with three simple pieces. Together they cover who inherits what, who makes decisions if you cannot, and what care you do or do not want.

  • A will - says who receives your belongings and names someone to carry out your wishes.
  • A durable power of attorney - lets someone you trust handle money and paperwork if you are unable to.
  • A health care directive (living will) and health care proxy - put your medical wishes in writing and name who speaks for you.

For information purposes only - this is not legal, financial, or medical advice. The Aging Veteran is a private service and is not part of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Benefits are subject to VA eligibility rules. Always confirm your specifics on va.gov or with a qualified professional.

03Beneficiary designations often beat your will

Here is something many people miss: life insurance, bank accounts, and retirement accounts usually pass to whoever is named on the account - the beneficiary form wins even if your will says something different.

Take an afternoon to review the beneficiaries on every policy and account. Old forms that still name an ex-spouse or a person who has passed are one of the most common and painful mistakes families run into.

04What happens to VA benefits when you pass

VA disability compensation and pension payments stop at death, but your family is not left with nothing. Eligible survivors may qualify for their own monthly benefit called DIC, plus burial and memorial benefits.

If you have SGLI or VGLI life insurance, it pays the beneficiary you named. And any VA benefits owed to you but not yet paid may go to a surviving spouse or dependent, so it is worth having your family ask.

05Free and low-cost help

You do not have to pay a fortune to get organized. Some VA life insurance programs include free online will preparation, and many communities have free legal-aid clinics for seniors and veterans.

Whatever route you choose, the most important step is simply telling a trusted family member where your papers - including your DD-214 - are kept.

Keep reading

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