Q+A: Can I leave an inheritance to someone who is not family, but has taken care of me during my illness these last few years?

Answer:

Absolutely, in Oregon, you have the legal right to leave your assets to anyone you choose, including caregivers who have shown you kindness and support during difficult times. As long as you have a legally valid estate plan, you can include non-family members as beneficiaries without restriction.

However, there are several important considerations to keep in mind when making these decisions. First, be very specific in your will about who this person is and exactly what you want them to receive. Include their full legal name, relationship to you, and current address to avoid any confusion during estate administration.

Second, consider how your family might react to this decision. While you have every right to recognize someone who provided care and companionship, family members sometimes challenge bequests to non-relatives, especially if they feel the amounts are excessive or if they suspect undue influence. To minimize potential conflicts, you might consider discussing your intentions with family members beforehand or including an explanation in your will about why you're making this bequest.

It's also wise to ensure your gift complies with any relevant regulations. Some states have specific rules about bequests to professional caregivers or healthcare providers, so the relationship and circumstances matter.

Finally, make sure your documents are properly executed with the help of an attorney. This helps ensure your wishes are honored and reduces the likelihood of successful challenges.

The bottom line is that recognizing someone who cared for you during illness is both legally permissible and often deeply meaningful to the recipient. Just make sure your intentions are clearly documented and thoughtfully considered.