Asset and Estate Protection Program (AEPP)

At CHES, Inc., we understand that protecting your family’s future goes beyond homeownership—it’s about safeguarding the assets you’ve worked hard to build. That’s why we created the Asset and Estate Protection Program (AEPP). Designed especially for Black, Latino, and immigrant households who are often underserved in estate planning, AEPP provides affordable legal documentation, education, and personalized support. From wills and powers of attorney to beneficiary deeds and healthcare directives, our program ensures families can maintain financial stability and control—even in times of uncertainty.

  • Vulnerability: Individuals and families, particularly Black and Latino households and immigrant populations, face the risk of asset loss due to deportation, death, or lack of proper legal documentation.
  • Lack of Access: Many lack access to affordable legal services and estate planning resources, leading to uncertainty and potential financial hardship.
  • Cultural Barriers: Cultural reluctance, misinformation, and complex immigration situations further complicate estate planning for these communities.
  • Stats: According to MAUC and HAC, only 18% of Latinos have a will, highlighting the critical need.
  • Disjointed Support Systems: Few community support organizations have in-house legal staff and integrated, one-stop support models for legal, financial, and housing needs
  • Mission: To safeguard the personal, real property, and business assets of individuals at risk of deportation, ensuring families retain control and financial stability.
  • Value Proposition: We provide comprehensive legal assistance, education, and personalized support to establish legal frameworks for asset protection and estate planning.
  • Black and Latino households historically underserved in estate planning.
  • Immigrant families facing uncertain residency status and potential deportation.
  • Individuals seeking peace of mind regarding the future of their assets.

A. Legal Documentation:

  • Wills (including personal property & digital assets)
  • Power of Attorney (POA) with Detention Affidavit
  • Trustee Assignments (if applicable)
  • Beneficiary Deeds (with recording)
  • Parental Authorization (appoints legal guardian)
  • Healthcare POA, Living Will, HIPAA authorizations

B. Education & Empowerment:

  • Group Workshops: Covering asset protection, estate planning basics, POA/trustee roles, and beneficiary deeds.
  • Individual Consultations: Personalized guidance from HUD-certified housing counselors and legal professionals.

C. Resource Navigation:

  • Educational Materials: Guides and handouts summarizing key concepts.
  • Partnerships: Collaborations with legal aid organizations, immigration attorneys, and community groups to expand access to resources.

D. Ongoing Support:

  • Case Management: Tracking participant progress and ensuring proper documentation.
  • Follow-Up: Reassessing needs and providing ongoing support as circumstances change.
  • Establish legal frameworks that enable designated persons to effectively manage assets.
  • Provide peace of mind regarding asset management and distribution in the event of deportation or death.
  • Educate participants about asset protection, legal documentation, and estate planning.

The Asset and Estate Protection Program (AEPP) provides families with the tools and guidance they need to protect what matters most. By combining affordable legal services with financial education, AEPP empowers households to create wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and other essential documents that preserve wealth and prevent hardship. At CHES, Inc., we believe every family deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing their assets, wishes, and legacy are secure for generations to come.