When to Seek Help
If you are getting older and . . .
- You can still manage your own finances but you want to plan ahead just in case.
- You don’t want someone else making decisions for you later on, so you will do it now.
- You are forgetting to pay bills, not taking care of business the way you used to.
- You have been given a diagnosis that means you will soon need help.
- You are getting ready for surgery or some other situation that will make it difficult for you temporarily to manage your own finances.
- You don’t want to burden loved ones with financial responsibilities and decisions on your behalf.
- You want to avoid family disagreements by providing clear instructions.
- You believe in leaving financial matters to the professionals, especially if there’s someone you trust.
If someone you care about . . .
- Is falling behind on money matters due to dementia or frailty.
- Has recently had a stroke or other crisis that leaves them unable to manage on their own.
- Has lost the spouse or other person who always handled the money.
- Depends on you and you worry about who will take care of them if you no longer can.
- May be the victim of financial abuse.
- Has asked for your help but you don’t know where to begin, don’t have time or feel awkward stepping in.
