A Power of Attorney (POA) is a person legally recognized and responsible to handle a persons affairs when that person is unable to do so. POA ends upon that persons death. To die intestate is to die without a valid will. If transfer of property/money is not legally provided for otherwise, Probate Court steps in to oversee that these things are distributed according to probate laws. This will cost you in court/legal fees along with much frustration. An executor is a person responsible for handling/settling a deceased persons estate.
We strongly advise you to see a professional regarding your financial and estate matters. You should have a will drawn up and your affairs in order so that probate court (or any other legal expense) is avoided. The following sites provide more information:

• Growthhouse.org - Estate Planning
• Nolo.com - Wills & Estate Planning

If you are financially challenged you may qualify to have all or much of the funeral expenses paid for. You must see an authorized representative at your local agency to see if you qualify. Those opting to receive DHS assistance must get approval and authorization from the DHS BEFORE funeral arrangements can be made. Also note that your choices regarding merchandise and services will be limited.

If you wish, you may place money to cover your funeral expenses in a funeral insurance plan or a trust. The interest this money collects is placed back into the plan/trust and thus keeps up with any increase in costs over time.

You may be eligible for a Lump-Sum Death Payment of $255 from Social Security. Currently you must be a spouse of at least ten (10) years and living at the same address to qualify. Although the funeral home will complete and send an authorized statement of death to SSA, you must still contact them after a death to revue and resolve any benefit issues. You may call Social Security toll-free, 365 days a year, 24 hours a day. The number to use is 1-800-772-1213. To speak with a representative, call between the hours of 7:00am and 7:00pm on regular business days. You can find more information at their web site:

• Social Security Online

You may qualify to receive benefits from the VA to help cover funeral expenses. If you are eligible, you could receive up to $600 from Federal Veterans and $300 from your local county veterans organization. Contact your funeral director to see if you qualify. You can find more information at the VA web site:

• Dept. of Veterans Affairs (VA)