My father in law finally got around to updating his will and created a power of attorney for my wife. It is a relief in some respects, but sad in others because we know he is approaching the end of his years. Like your wife's parents, we are not sure how much in assets he has, but have a good idea. There will be no waste as he never wasted anything, and she would not want that to happen either. Hell, the man still sews up his socks when he has more than enough money just to buy a new pair. Then again, that is how he has saved up so much I guess.