Disability Arrangements Can Help Avert Costly Legal Battle

Fifty percent of Americans will have an extended period of disability sometime during their lives.

Arrangements should be made for someone to sign your checks, sell your car or arrange a loan if you become disabled. If arrangements haven’t been made, Family Circle magazine says, family members might end up in a costly legal battle.

A durable general power of attorney authorizes a variety of powers to someone you designate. Simply fill out a form to name a person as the agent, have it witnessed and notarized. That person then has the right to act for you in the event of a disabling accident or illness.