An estate plan is a series of legal documents, such as a will, trusts, and powers of attorney, that indicate what will become of your assets and wishes upon your passing. In Texas, you have the right to create an estate plan regardless of your legal status. The McAllen Attorneys at Fryer and Hansen want to share insightful information about what undocumented people in Texas need to know about creating their estate plan.
Estate Plan Creation with Our McAllen Attorneys
As we dive deeper into this topic, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. While undocumented people have the legal right to create an estate plan, several situations may require closer consideration. For instance, an undocumented person who owns land in a different country may need to create an estate plan there. This is just one of many situations that may require the guidance of an estate planning attorney to provide the right advice.
With that said, some of the documents that undocumented people can include in their estate plan are:
- Wills – You can draft a will to specify how your assets should be distributed upon your death.
- Trusts – Setting up a trust can help manage and protect your assets for your beneficiaries.
- Powers of Attorney – You can appoint someone to make financial and medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
- Healthcare Directives – Specify your wishes for medical care in case you are unable to communicate them yourself.
Factors to Consider
If an undocumented person is ready to begin the estate planning process, they should keep several things in mind. To start, proper identification will be needed to begin the process. If the deceased designates beneficiaries, the immigration status of said beneficiaries may become an important factor, especially regarding estate and gift taxes. Additionally, because the nature of the estate planning process for an undocumented person can be more complex, there may be a need to consult with both an immigration lawyer and an estate planning lawyer.
Assured Support When It’s Needed Most
While there are certain factors to consider, undocumented people in Texas have the legal right to create an estate plan to ensure their assets are managed according to their wishes and their loved ones are properly cared for. Whether you’re embarking on your own estate planning journey or considering updating your existing plan, Fryer and Hansen is ready to help you find the peace of mind you need. For guidance and expert advice from highly experienced McAllen attorneys, contact our office today. We’re ready to provide additional information about our services or help you book your appointment.