Checklist

Estate Planning Checklist

Topic: Estate Planning

1. List your assets and debts Write down bank accounts, investments, real estate, vehicles, business interests, and outstanding debts so nothing is overlooked.
2. Name your beneficiaries Decide who should receive what. Beneficiary designations on accounts and policies usually override a will, so keep them consistent.
3. Choose an executor or personal representative Pick someone organized and trustworthy, and name a backup. Ask them first. State rules vary.
4. Decide about a power of attorney A durable power of attorney lets someone you trust handle finances if you become unable to. Requirements differ by state. State rules vary.
5. Make advance health-care directives A health-care proxy and living will record your medical wishes. Forms and witnessing rules are state-specific. State rules vary.
6. Review beneficiary designations Check the named beneficiaries on retirement accounts, life insurance, and payable-on-death accounts — these pass outside a will.
7. Organize important documents Keep deeds, titles, account statements, insurance policies, and prior estate documents together where your executor can find them.
8. Plan for minor children or dependent relatives If applicable, name guardians and consider how assets for dependents will be managed. State rules vary.
9. Store documents securely and tell someone where A fireproof location or secure digital storage works; make sure your executor knows how to access them.
10. Review the plan periodically Revisit after major life events — moves, marriages, divorces, births, deaths — and when state law changes.