Fiduciary: Planning Ahead with Experience, Impartiality, and Care is provided by Melissa Walpose of Profiducia Trusted Family Partners. This article is published in the Fall/Winter 2025 Edition of Vibrant Senior Options Resource Guide Magazine.
When It Matters Most
Planning ahead may not be the easiest thing to think about, but it’s truly one of the most meaningful gifts you can give to your loved ones.
Naming Your Power of Attorney, Executor, or Trustee
When it comes to naming someone as your Power of Attorney, Executor, or Trustee, most people naturally think of a spouse, child, or close friend. In some situations, that can work out fine. But it’s not always the best—or easiest—option.
Maybe your family lives far away. Maybe there are complicated relationships or simply a desire not to burden the people you care about. Whatever the reason, it’s worth considering whether a loved one is the right person to take on such an important role.
Time-Consuming Roles
These roles come with a lot of responsibility. A Power of Attorney may need to make quick financial decisions. An Executor has to pay bills, file taxes, sell property, and settle your estate. A Trustee might be managing assets, handling records, and making distributions for years to come. It’s not just paperwork—it’s time-consuming, technical, and often motional work.
For a family member, juggling all that—on top of their own life and, potentially, their own grief—can be a lot to handle. And unfortunately, it can sometimes lead to misunderstandings or tension between relatives.
A Fiduciary Makes a Difference
A fiduciary is a trained, experienced professional who can step into these roles—Power of Attorney, Executor, or Trustee—on your behalf. They’re neutral, independent, and focused on doing things by the book. They understand the legal requirements, deadlines, and the big picture. Their know-how helps avoid costly mistakes and delays that can happen when someone is navigating it all for the first time.
Taking the Pressure Off the Family
But most importantly, bringing in a professional takes the pressure off your family. They don’t have to wade through complex forms or navigate difficult decisions. They can focus on what matters most: being there for one another and remembering you.
By choosing a professional fiduciary, you ensure that your affairs are handled with care, clarity, and fairness. It brings peace of mind now—and offers your family comfort, support, and relief when they’ll need it most.
Melissa Walpole
Profiducia
206-718-6766
