Why a Living Will Is So Important

By: Erwin Zimmerman, Gileon Duisters & Gijsbert van Lieshout – Zimmerman, Duisters & Van Lieshout Mortgage Advice

More and more people in the Netherlands are dealing with dementia or other conditions that make it hard to make decisions independently. Right now, about 300,000 people are living with dementia. By 2050, that number is expected to rise to around 610,000.

This means that many people will reach a moment in life where they can no longer manage their finances, home, or medical choices. That’s why it’s smart to decide in advance who may take over if you can’t do it yourself.

What happens if you don’t arrange anything?

If someone becomes unable to make decisions and nothing has been arranged, the court can appoint someone to handle their affairs. Although this sounds helpful, in practice problems often arise, such as:

• a second home that is no longer maintained,

• investments that are not managed,

• gifts that are not carried out as intended.

There is also a real risk of financial abuse. Every year, about 30,000 elderly people in the Netherlands are financially exploited — often by family or acquaintances.

The solution: a power of attorney or a living will

With a power of attorney or living will, you choose who may act on your behalf when you’re no longer able to.

What is a power of attorney?

With a power of attorney, you give someone permission to handle important matters for you, such as:

• managing your bank accounts,

• selling your home,

• making gifts,

• making medical decisions.

A notarial power of attorney usually costs €150 to €450 per person.

What is a living will?

A living will (levenstestament) is more extensive. It’s registered in the Central Living Will Register. In it, you can describe:

• which medical treatments you do or do not want,

• what should happen with your home and belongings,

• who will take care of pets,

• wishes about your funeral or organ donation,

• what should happen with your digital accounts (email, photos, social media),

• who supervises your chosen representative.

A living will usually costs €350 to €650 per person, depending on the notary and region.

How to create a living will

1. Don’t wait too long

You must create a living will while you are still mentally capable. It’s best to arrange it before any health issues arise.

2. Use the KNB checklist

On notaris.nl, you’ll find a helpful checklist that guides you through your options. Fill it in and bring it with you to the notary.

3. Choose a trustworthy representative

This could be a partner, child, family member or friend. Choose someone you trust and who is also willing to take on the responsibility.

4. Don’t forget your digital life

Decide who may access your:

• phone or laptop,

• photos and documents,

• email, social media, and online accounts.

5. Request several quotes from notaries

Prices vary per notary. You can easily request and compare quotes online.

6. Inform the right people

Give your representative a copy and let important people know that you have created a living will — for example your partner, children, doctor, and bank.

Our message to you

A living will brings peace of mind — for you and for your loved ones. It ensures that your wishes are respected if you can no longer express them yourself.

It may not be the easiest topic to think about, but it is one of the most important documents you can prepare.

👉 Do you want to know how this affects your financial situation or how to arrange it properly?We’re here to help.

Warm regards,Erwin Zimmerman, Gileon Duisters & Gijsbert van LieshoutZimmerman, Duisters & Van Lieshout Mortgage Advice