If itâs important, it needs protecting. How many of us could afford to replace our home, car or other hard-earned possessions if something happened to them? Weâd need insurance cover to make it through. And thereâs no point building wealth over the long run only to lose it all when we really need it. Family members who depend on us may need protecting in case we die or are unable to work because of illness. Itâs also important to let our loved ones know what we want to happen with our money and property when we die or are unable to make decisions for ourselves.
Insurance is an important part of managing money matters. Itâs a way to protect ourselves and our families against an unexpected financial loss. This might come about if something thatâs precious to us is damaged or stolen. But it could also come from no longer being able to provide for our families because of illness or death. Having the right insurance in place can help bring peace of mind.Â
An enduring power of attorney (EPA) is a legal document giving someone the power to act for us if, at some stage in the future, we lose the ability to make decisions ourselves. There are two types of EPA â one for money and property and the other for personal care and welfare.
Without an EPA, no one else can deal with property or financial affairs on your behalf.
A will formally sets out how our money and property should be dealt with after death. Most of us would probably rather not think about it, but we all need a will, no matter how old we are. Dying without a will can cause a lot of unnecessary stress and cost for the people we leave behind.
The aim of a family trust is to provide future benefits for close family members or to protect family assets. For example, many people in business use family trusts to protect their home in case their business fails.
Trusts arenât for everyone â they can be costly and complicated. Get advice from a specialist trust lawyer or a professional trustee company.
BLOG
10 Sep, 2018
Just how sorted are we for when the unexpected happens? Watch scenes from the Money Week 2018 launch.
BLOG
6 Sep, 2018
Youâd expect anyone moving from sunny Southern California to windswept Wellington to feel the meteorological equivalent of a slap in the face. It was just that.
BLOG
30 Aug, 2018
Three grand. $3,000. Thatâs a lot of money, especially if you have to come up with it in a hurry.
BLOG
24 Aug, 2018
âLord, let me win the lottery. . . " How many prayers there must have been like that! âLord, let me win the lottery.
BLOG
16 Aug, 2018
âA stitch in time saves nineâ goes the saying, but I never really got it.
BLOG
29 Jun, 2018
âYou can't really go crazy without it,â says James Boyle, 24, world traveller and clearly a fan of travel insurance. For good reason.