COVID-19 has reminded us all of the fragility of life. You want to take care of your loved ones, and that’s why it is important to make sure your estate matters are in order. You will have peace of mind knowing there is no uncertainty in the event of your passing.

What are some steps health-care employees can take to put their affairs in order and have their wishes known? Here are some:

• One of the most important rights a person insured under the Group Life insurance plan has is to designate a beneficiary. Naming someone to receive the proceeds of your life insurance ensures you take care of your loved ones after your death. You will have received your 3sHealth “Member’s Annual Statement” in the mail on or around June 1. Review your beneficiary information found in this statement to ensure that it is up-to-date. If you wish to make a change, call 3sHealth Employee Benefits at 1.866.278.2301.
• Make sure you have updated your pension’s beneficiary information. If you are a SHEPP member, you will have recently received your “Annual Pension Statement.” Section 5 details your spouse and/or designated beneficiaries. Review this section and update it if necessary. Learn more here.
  
• Write your Advanced Care Directive, which is a legal document that helps your substitute decision maker and health-care team understand your choices for resuscitation and other health-care treatments. An Advanced Care Directive means that your wishes will be carried out. It will also take some stress off of your loved ones because they will know that all their decisions align with your choices. Learn more.
  
•  A Last Will and Testament (will) is also a legal document that you use to provide direction regarding the distribution of your estate and provisions for your minor children once you die. A current will helps your executor ensure your wishes are followed. If you do not have a will, your estate would be divided according to Saskatchewan law. Read more.

It is important to regularly review your estate and who you have named as your beneficiary. Did you recently go through a separation or divorce? Did you have another child? Did your daughter get married and change her family name?

Each time you have a life event, verify that your beneficiary and estate information is correct.