A letter of intent for parents is a document that outlines your wishes for your children’s future care should something happen to you. It’s essential to have one in place in case of unforeseen circumstances. In this article, we’ll provide you with tips and examples of letter of intent for parents sample that you can use as a guide in creating your own document.
What is a Letter of Intent for Parents?
A letter of intent for parents is a document that outlines your wishes for your children’s future care should you die or become incapacitated. It’s not a legal document, but it can help guide caregivers and the court in making decisions about the care of your children. The letter should include instructions for your children’s care, such as their daily routine, medical needs, and education. It’s important to update the letter regularly and keep it in a safe place where your appointed caregivers can access it.
Examples of Letter of Intent for Parents Sample
Example 1: Medical Instructions
Dear [Appointed Caregiver],
In the event of my death or incapacity, I appoint you as the legal guardian of my children. I wish for my children to be cared for in the following manner:
Medical Instructions:
- My children have the following medical conditions: [list conditions].
- They are taking the following medications: [list medications and dosages].
- They have the following allergies: [list allergies].
Thank you for being willing to care for my children. Should you need any further information, please contact [contact name and number].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Education Instructions
Dear [Appointed Caregiver],
In the event of my death or incapacity, I appoint you as the legal guardian of my children. I wish for my children to be cared for in the following manner:
Education Instructions:
- My children are currently attending [school name and grade level].
- I wish for them to continue attending this school until [specific date or grade level].
- If they need to change schools, I would like them to attend [school name and grade level].
- My children will require financial assistance for college, which is set aside in a trust fund. Please contact [trustee name and contact information] for more information.
Thank you for being willing to care for my children. Should you need any further information, please contact [contact name and number].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Daily Routine Instructions
Dear [Appointed Caregiver],
In the event of my death or incapacity, I appoint you as the legal guardian of my children. I wish for my children to be cared for in the following manner:
Daily Routine Instructions:
- My children wake up at [specific time] and go to bed at [specific time].
- They need to eat [specific diet or meals] due to medical conditions or food allergies.
- They have weekly extracurricular activities, including [specific activities and times].
- Please limit their screen time to [specific time limit or restrictions].
Thank you for being willing to care for my children. Should you need any further information, please contact [contact name and number].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Emergency Contact Information
Dear [Appointed Caregiver],
In the event of my death or incapacity, I appoint you as the legal guardian of my children. I wish for my children to be cared for in the following manner:
Emergency Contact Information:
- The following individuals should be contacted in case of emergency: [list names, phone numbers, and relationship to your children].
- If you are unable to care for my children, please contact [alternate caregiver name and contact information].
- Please keep a copy of this letter with you at all times.
Thank you for being willing to care for my children. Should you need any further information, please contact [contact name and number].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Religious Instructions
Dear [Appointed Caregiver],
In the event of my death or incapacity, I appoint you as the legal guardian of my children. I wish for my children to be cared for in the following manner:
Religious Instructions:
- My children are to be raised in the [specific religion or faith].
- They are to attend [specific religious services or events] regularly.
- Please notify [specific religious leader or organization] of my death or incapacity.
Thank you for being willing to care for my children. Should you need any further information, please contact [contact name and number].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Financial Instructions
Dear [Appointed Caregiver],
In the event of my death or incapacity, I appoint you as the legal guardian of my children. I wish for my children to be cared for in the following manner:
Financial Instructions:
- My children have the following assets: [list assets and their value].
- They are to receive [specific amount or percentage] of my estate.
- Please contact [specific financial advisor or banker] for more information about their inheritance.
Thank you for being willing to care for my children. Should you need any further information, please contact [contact name and number].
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Letter of Intent for Parents
Writing a letter of intent for parents is not an easy task. Here are some tips that might help:
Start Early
It’s best to start writing the letter early, so you have enough time to think about your wishes for your children’s future care. Review and update the letter regularly, especially after major life events.
Be Clear and Concise
Write the letter in simple language that’s easy to understand. Be clear and concise about your instructions and avoid using jargon.
Include Specific Details
Include specific details about your children’s medical needs, education, daily routine, emergency contacts, and financial situation. This can help guide caregivers in providing the best possible care for your children.
Choose the Right Caregiver
Choose a caregiver who can provide the type of care you want for your children. Discuss your wishes with them and make sure they’re willing to take on the responsibility.
Keep the Letter Safe and Accessible
Store the letter in a safe place where your appointed caregivers can access it quickly and easily. Make sure they know where to find it and how to use it.
Review and Update Regularly
Review and update the letter regularly, especially after major life events such as the birth of a child, a divorce, a remarriage, or a death in the family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is a letter of intent for parents a legal document?
No, a letter of intent for parents is not a legal document. However, it can help guide caregivers and the court in making decisions about the care of your children in case of unforeseen circumstances.
Q: Who should I appoint as the legal guardian of my children?
You should choose someone who can provide the type of care you want for your children. Discuss your wishes with them and make sure they’re willing and able to take on the responsibility.
Q: How often should I update my letter of intent for parents?
You should review and update the letter regularly, especially after major life events such as the birth of a child, a divorce, a remarriage, or a death in the family.
Q: Can I appoint different guardians for different children?
Yes, you can appoint different guardians for different children. Make sure to specify this in your letter of intent for parents.
Q: What should I do if my appointed caregiver is unable to care for my children?
You should have a backup caregiver in case your appointed caregiver is unable to care for your children. Specify this in your letter of intent for parents.
Q: Can I change my letter of intent for parents?
Yes, you can change your letter of intent for parents. It’s important to review and update the letter regularly, especially after major life events.
Conclusion
A letter of intent for parents is an essential document that outlines your wishes for your children’s future care should something happen to you. It can help guide caregivers and the court in making decisions about the care of your children. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can create a letter of intent that provides clear and concise instructions for your children’s care.