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Estate Planning Center

Estate planning is for anyone with people who depend on them. The four documents, a decision on whether you need a trust, and a beneficiary audit, in one place.

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The four documents

What each one does, and what happens without it.

  1. 1
    A will
    A will says how your assets are distributed after death and names guardians for minor children. Without one, state intestacy law decides, and it may not match your wishes. A will must be signed and witnessed to be valid.
  2. 2
    Durable power of attorney
    A durable power of attorney authorizes a trusted person to manage your finances if you become incapacitated. Without one, your family may need a court-appointed conservatorship, which is slow and expensive.
  3. 3
    Healthcare directive
    Also called a living will or advance directive. It states your medical wishes if you cannot communicate, and names a healthcare proxy to decide on your behalf.
  4. 4
    Beneficiary designations
    Beneficiary designations on 401(k)s, IRAs and life insurance override your will entirely. An account with a named beneficiary passes directly to that person, outside probate. Review them after every major life event.

Which documents do I need?

Seven questions build a checklist of what to prepare, what to decide, and what to bring to an attorney.

Question 1 of 7

What is your marital status?

Educational onlyThis wizard helps you prepare and organize; it does not draft legal documents. Blended families, business assets, multiple properties or taxable estates need professional drafting. Your answers are saved on this device so you can pick up where you left off.

Do you need a trust?

Three questions, one recommendation.

Question 1 of 3

Is your total estate likely to exceed $15 million (the 2026 federal estate tax exemption)?

Beneficiary audit checklist

Beneficiary designations override your will. Check each item.

  1. 1
    Valid, witnessed will
  2. 2
    Beneficiary named on 401(k)
  3. 3
    Beneficiary named on IRA
  4. 4
    Beneficiary named on life insurance
  5. 5
    Durable power of attorney
  6. 6
    Healthcare directive or living will
  7. 7
    Emergency contact card in wallet
  8. 8
    Documents reviewed in the last 3 years
  1. Net Worth Tracker
    Your total estate value, the starting point of any estate plan.
  2. Leave a Legacy
    Guides and tools for wealth transfer and legacy planning.
ImportantEstate planning laws vary by state. Consult a licensed estate attorney for guidance specific to your situation and jurisdiction. The information on this page is educational and is not legal advice.
Educational disclaimer. Everything on WealthSerene.com is educational and is not investment advice. Projections and calculations are illustrative; actual results depend on market conditions, your situation and factors outside this tool’s scope. For a decision specific to your situation, consult a qualified financial professional. View full disclosures