Created By Cynthia R. Haddad, CFP® & John W. Nadworny, CFP® ChFC

Many of you have heard about the importance of creating a document that contains the kind of information that only a family member can create - and which provides a format to communicate the vision of your desires and concerns for your child to his/her future caretakers. We have developed A Special Letter of Intent to serve this purpose.

The most important asset your child has is YOU.

Think for a moment about the specific instructions or guidelines you give to your child or his/her caretaker when you leave for just an evening or a weekend. Imagine if you went away and never came back. Certainly you have a picture of what you would like his or her life to look like after your death. However, the next caretaker may not have the same ideas and insight as you. We have designed this Letter of Intent to provide you the format to communicate your desires and concerns to current and future caretakers.

This is not a legally binding document, but it is perhaps one of the most important documents you can prepare for the future well being of your child. If you have entrusted a dedicated sibling, friend, relative, trustee, or organization to look after your child when you are gone, you can help to guide them by providing them the knowledge that only you, as a parent, possess.

Sample Topics:

Biographical and Family Information
Medical History
Important People
List of Advisors
Location of Important Documents
Personality Traits and Preferences
Personal Care Information
Important Daily Routines
Additional Information
General Statement of Desires
Your Checklist

Of course, you should periodically review and revise this letter - perhaps on your birthday, or your child's. Be flexible, be clear, and feel free to make it as personal as you wish.