While we are all hurraying recent improvements in terms of gay marriage and domestic partnerships, for the majority of us, unfortunately, it still takes documentation to legally protect ourselves and our partners and make certain that inheritance, health care and other necessities are handled. What do you need to do to make sure that all of your financial and personal affairs are in order, and that should something happen your partner can act in your best interests?  Fortunately, especially if you do not have children or especially complex financial affairs you can handle the majority of this paperwork at a limited cost.

First, you will need a durable power of attorney. This form allows your significant other to pay bills, deposit checks, conduct banking, pay taxes, sell stocks and handle other financial matters as needed. A durable power of attorney is relevant and legally binding even if you are no longer competent to handle your own affairs. The basic form may be downloaded online and notarized, prepared by an attorney, or found in the forms available in most legal software programs.

Next, you should set up a health care proxy. A health care proxy will allow your partner to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. Again, this form may be downloaded and notarized, prepared by an attorney or handled via simple easy to use software. You can also include special instructions, such as those that would typically be included in a living will, in the health care proxy form. Ehow offers instructions for drafting a health care proxy. A separate living will may also be a good idea, particularly if you have strong feelings about end of life care.

Finally, you need to be certain that your will is in order to provide your significant other with rights to a shared home, your financial assets and provide for guardianship of children if need be. Avoid leaving these decisions to the courts.

You might also consider a product designed for cohabiting couples, like Nolo’s legal guide to living together.  Rainbowpridelegal.com offers a legal paperwork package specifically designed for LGBTQ couples.

If you are single, you may want to consider who will provide for your affairs if you are unable to and make choices appropriate to your life. A good friend, a parent, or a sibling might all be appropriate in terms of choosing a health care proxy and power of attorney.