Estate Planning Documents
To help you better understand the estate planning process, we’ve provided a brief description of some of the key estate planning documents you will need to know about and understand.
Last Will and Testament
The Last Will and Testament is a written statement of what will happen to your probate estate when you die. Your probate estate includes everything you own in your name alone or as a tenant in common with one or more other persons.
Durable General Power of Attorney
This document appoints agents to make financial decisions for you when you are incapacitated. It can also help you avoid situations under which a court otherwise appoints a guardian over you.
Advance Medical Directive
When done properly, this includes both a Living Will and a Medical Power of Attorney. A Living Will states your desires for end-of-life medical care. A Medical Power of Attorney appoints those persons you want to serve as your medical agent.
Revocable Life Insurance Trust
Established while you are alive, this document creates a contractual substitute for your will. It spells out the ownership, administration, and ultimate disposition of your assets that you transfer to the trust.