Hurricane Preparedness and Estate Planning: Protecting Your Family in Every Storm

When a hurricane is on the horizon, most of us think about bottled water, flashlights, and boarding up windows. But there’s another kind of preparation that can bring lasting peace of mind — making sure your family is legally protected if disaster strikes.

Why Estate Planning Belongs in Your Storm Prep

Just like hurricanes, life can change suddenly. Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy — it’s for any family that wants to be sure their children are cared for, their finances are managed, and their wishes are honored if something happens.

3 Key Steps to Include in Your Hurricane Readiness Plan

1. Make Sure Your Documents Are Up to Date

Take a few minutes to review your will, powers of attorney, and health care directives. Ask yourself:

• Does my will still reflect who should care for my children?

• Do I have a current financial power of attorney in case I can’t access my accounts?

• Does my health care directive still name the right person to make medical decisions?

If the answer to any of these is “no” (or if you don’t have these documents at all), now is the perfect time to fix that.

2. Keep Your Estate Planning Documents Safe — and Accessible

Having a will locked in a drawer that no one can get to doesn’t help your family in an emergency.

• Store originals in a fireproof, waterproof safe.

• Give a trusted loved one instructions on where to find them.

• Keep digital copies (password protected) for quick reference.

3. Prepare a Family “Go Binder”

Your go binder should include:

• Copies of your will, powers of attorney, and health care directives

• A list of key accounts (bank, mortgage, insurance) and contact info

• Emergency contacts and medical information for family members

• Copies of important IDs and insurance cards

This binder should be easy to grab if you need to leave home quickly.

Peace of Mind in Every Season

Hurricane season is stressful enough — don’t add legal uncertainty to the mix. Taking a little time now to review and update your estate plan can mean your family is protected, no matter what the storm brings.

Ready to get started? I’d be honored to help you put these protections in place for your family. Click here to schedule your consultation today.