Living Will Basics
A living will is actually not a will at all, in the traditional sense. Rather, it’s a legal document that reflects your healthcare wishes should you become too ill to make decisions on your own behalf. This section provides basic information on what living wills cover and answers important questions on health care directives, creating a living will, and choosing an agent for your healthcare power of attorney. You’ll find state-specific laws governing living wills, including links to codes and statutes. This section also contains sample living wills forms -- including a living will directive to physicians and healthcare power of attorney form. Select from the list of titles below to learn more.
- Living Wills: Introduction
An overview of living wills and the laws governing them. Learn about the types of healthcare decisions living wills can cover, the differences between living wills and power of attorney, and more.
- Should You Consider a Living Will?
A guide to help you decide whether a living will is right for you. This article provides information on the components of a living will and how a living will can benefit you.
- Sample Living Will Form
Most states have laws allowing patients to draft living wills dictating how they wish to be treated should they become unable to communicate their wishes. This sample form will give you an idea of what living wills involve.
- Power of Attorney, Living Wills, and Advance Directives
A look at the different types of documents that can help you designate the medical treatment you wish to receive. Learn about the different forms, how to create each, and their main differences.
- Selecting Your Health Care Agent
Your health care agent will have decision-making authority over your medical care, should you become incapacitated. This article offers a number of factors to consider when choosing a health care agent.
- Living Will With Designation of Surrogate
By designating a surrogate, you’re granting another person the right to make healthcare decisions for you should you become incapacitated. Take a look at this sample form to get an idea of what surrogacy entails.