Knowing that you will not live forever is not the same as knowing that death is near. Whether you were recently diagnosed with a terminal condition, or you simply know that death is not far away, you probably feel the need to make sure your “affairs” are in order. The idea of sitting down and engaging in end-of-life planning may sound morbid, but for others, the thought of not planning is worse. With that in mind, the Los Angeles attorneys at Schomer Law Group, APC discuss important California end-of-life practical and legal steps you may wish to consider taking when you are close to the end of your life.
End-of-Life Checklist
Everyone approaches the final stage of life differently with some individuals devoting their remaining time to personal experiences and others concentrating on meaningful conversations or unresolved relationships. Your circumstances, values, and priorities will shape the actions you choose to take; however, there are several widely adopted steps that offer guidance during this stage, including:
- Create advance directives. Establishing documents that reflect your medical wishes can spare your loved ones from difficult decisions. A Healthcare Power of Attorney allows you to appoint someone you trust to make medical choices if you lose the ability to communicate. A Living Will provides instructions regarding life-sustaining treatment and other end-of-life preferences. Completing these documents early ensures clarity and reduces uncertainty for those who care for you.
- Organize legal papers and documents. Your Executor or Trustee will need access to important paperwork after you pass away. Gather items such as your Will, trust documents, insurance policies, deeds, titles, and vital records. Place these materials in a secure but accessible location. If you store them in a safety deposit box, make certain another person is legally permitted to open the box. Inform a trusted individual of the exact location of your records.
- Review and update your estate plan. If you do not have an estate plan, establishing one now is essential. If you have already created one, take time to revise it while you remain legally capable of doing so. Your physical or cognitive health might decline, and any changes made during a period of incapacity can be challenged later. A timely review ensures that your wishes will be honored and that your plan is both accurate and comprehensive.
- Make long-term care arrangements. You may reach a point when remaining at home is no longer feasible. Touring facilities in advance can help you identify an environment you find comfortable. You might also provide loved ones with guidance regarding your preferences for care, such as the type of setting, available services, or proximity to family.
- Consider how you will pay for long-term care. Long-term care costs in California average more than $180,000 a year (as of 2025). Medicare and most private health insurance policies do not cover extended care in a nursing home. If you do not have long-term care insurance or the financial resources to pay privately, you may need to qualify for Medi-Cal. Early planning can protect your assets and improve the likelihood that you qualify when the need arises.
- Review life insurance policies. Examine your existing policies to determine whether they still serve a purpose. If a policy is no longer necessary, you may choose to access its cash value. If you maintain policies, verify that beneficiary designations reflect your current intentions. This review helps ensure that proceeds will reach the individuals you wish to support.
- Apply for benefits. Your current financial situation may make you eligible for programs you did not previously consider. Possible benefits include Social Security, veterans benefits, pension distributions, Medi-Cal, and assistance programs that help with food or medical expenses. Exploring these options can reduce financial pressure during a challenging time.
- Plan your funeral and burial. Many people have distinct preferences regarding burial, cremation, religious services, or memorial arrangements. Documenting these preferences helps guarantee that your wishes will be honored. You may also consider the financial impact of your final arrangements. If loved ones would struggle with the cost, you might include an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust in your estate plan to set funds aside for this purpose.
- Access to healthcare information. Eventually, someone may need to communicate with physicians, coordinate treatment, or handle medical paperwork on your behalf. Granting written permission through a HIPAA release ensures that your chosen individual can obtain information and speak with medical providers. Establishing this access early reduces administrative complications.
- Make lists for account numbers, logins, and passwords. Digital information is easy to overlook, yet your representative will need entry to online accounts, including financial platforms, payment applications, and social media profiles. Create a list of accounts, usernames, and passwords and store it with your other important documents or provide it to a trusted person. This preparation will simplify the administration of your affairs.
Can We Help You with End-of-Life Steps in California?
For more information, please join us for an upcoming FREE seminar. If you would like assistance with end-of-life steps in California, contact the experienced Los Angeles estate planning attorneys at Schomer Law Group APC by calling (310) 337-7696 to schedule an appointment.
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