Estate Planning Checklist: Documents You Need

Estate planning is not just for the wealthy — everyone needs a plan to protect their assets and ensure their wishes are carried out. Here is a comprehensive checklist of the documents you need.

Core Estate Planning Documents

Last Will and Testament

☐ Names an executor to administer your estate
☐ Designates beneficiaries for your assets
☐ Names a guardian for minor children
☐ Specifies any specific bequests (jewelry, heirlooms, etc.)
☐ Addresses residuary estate (everything not specifically mentioned)
☐ Properly signed and witnessed per your state's requirements

Revocable Living Trust

☐ Transfers assets to avoid probate
☐ Names a successor trustee to manage assets if you become incapacitated
☐ Provides for distribution of assets after death
☐ Properly funded (assets transferred into the trust)

Durable Power of Attorney for Finances

☐ Names an agent to manage financial affairs if you become incapacitated
☐ Specifies the scope of the agent's authority
☐ Becomes effective immediately or upon incapacity (your choice)

Healthcare Power of Attorney / Healthcare Proxy

☐ Names an agent to make medical decisions if you cannot
☐ Specifies the scope of medical decision-making authority
☐ Complies with your state's requirements

Living Will / Advance Directive

☐ Specifies your wishes for end-of-life medical care
☐ Addresses life support, CPR, artificial nutrition
☐ Includes POLST/MOLST form if appropriate
☐ Distributed to your doctor and healthcare proxy

HIPAA Authorization

☐ Allows designated individuals to access your medical records
☐ Ensures your healthcare proxy can communicate with your doctors

Beneficiary Designations

☐ Life insurance policies — beneficiaries current and correct
☐ Retirement accounts (401k, IRA) — beneficiaries current and correct
☐ Bank accounts — POD (payable on death) designations
☐ Investment accounts — TOD (transfer on death) designations

Important Documents to Organize

☐ Birth certificate
☐ Social Security card
☐ Passport
☐ Marriage/divorce certificates
☐ Military discharge papers (DD-214)
☐ Property deeds
☐ Vehicle titles
☐ Insurance policies
☐ Financial account statements
☐ Tax returns (last 3 years)
☐ Business ownership documents
☐ Digital asset inventory (passwords, accounts)

After Completing Your Estate Plan

☐ Store original documents in a safe location
☐ Tell your executor/trustee where documents are located
☐ Give copies to your healthcare proxy and attorney
☐ Review your plan every 3-5 years or after major life events
☐ Update beneficiary designations when life changes occur

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