Learn · Estate Planning
Incapacity Planning: The Risk Bigger Than Death
Most people plan for death. Almost no one plans for incapacity — even though it's more likely and the consequences hit immediately. Without the right documents, your spouse could be locked out overnight.
Key Points
Why Incapacity Planning Matters
- 01
Your Spouse Can Be Locked Out
Marriage doesn't grant legal authority over your spouse's accounts. Without a POA, banks and institutions can — and do — refuse access.
- 02
Banks Reject POAs Regularly
Stale, improperly drafted, or unfamiliar POA documents are rejected by financial institutions all the time. Yours needs to be current and properly structured.
- 03
Guardianship Is the Alternative
Without a POA, your family must petition the court for guardianship — a process that costs $5,000–$15,000+ and takes months.
- 04
Healthcare Decisions Need Authorization
A healthcare POA designates who can make medical decisions for you. Without one, doctors may be unable to consult your family.
- 05
Living Will vs Healthcare POA
A living will states your preferences. A healthcare POA names a person to make decisions. You need both to be fully protected.
- 06
No One Has Authority by Default
Without documents in place, no one — not your spouse, not your children — has automatic legal authority to act on your behalf.
FAQ
Common questions
Next Steps
Don't Wait for a Crisis
The documents that protect you during incapacity are included in every Bloodline plan.