Are you ready to take control of your legacy and guarantee your loved ones avoid unnecessary probate delays, legal fees, or inheritance disputes?
Our Free Estate Planning Checklist, fully updated for 2025,
gives you a step-by-step, attorney-reviewed process for organizing every key component of your estate plan.
Whether you’re writing your first will, updating beneficiary designations, or setting up a revocable living trust, this interactive checklist streamlines the entire process and ensures nothing slips through the cracks.
Key Takeaways Ahead
How to Use This Downloadable Estate Planning Checklist
- Download & Personalize:
Click the “Download PDF” button or print directly from your browser. You can check off items interactively online, or use the printable version to keep physical records with your documents. - Work Through Each Phase:
The checklist is divided into phases: Foundational Legal Documents (Will, Trust, Power of Attorney, Advance Healthcare Directive), Financial & Asset Inventory (accounts, real estate, valuables), Beneficiary Review, Digital Assets, and Final Wishes. - Update Beneficiaries & Documents:
Ensure all beneficiary designations on IRAs, 401(k)s, life insurance, and transfer-on-death accounts are current—these override your will in most cases. - Compile and Secure:
Collect and organize your documents in a secure location, such as a fireproof safe or with your estate attorney. Use the checklist’s “pro tip” reminders to share your plan with trusted family or your executor. - Review Regularly:
Set a calendar reminder to review your plan every 3–5 years or after major life events (marriage, divorce, birth, major purchase). - Consult an Expert:
The checklist is comprehensive but does not replace legal advice. Consult with a qualified estate planning attorney for state-specific requirements, tax optimization strategies, or advanced trust planning.
The Michael Ryan Money
Essential Estate Planning Checklist
This isn’t about complicated legal jargon; it’s about peace of mind. Use this checklist to get your affairs in order and create a clear, legally sound plan that protects your family’s future. Let’s get it done.
1
The Foundational Legal Documents
Last Will and Testament: The roadmap for your assets.
Name an Executor to manage your estate.
Name Guardians for any minor children. This is non-negotiable for parents.
Detail who inherits your property and assets.
Durable Financial Power of Attorney (POA): Your financial decision-maker.
Appoint a trusted agent to manage your finances if you become incapacitated.
Advance Healthcare Directive (Living Will): Your healthcare advocate.
Name a healthcare agent to make medical decisions on your behalf.
Outline your wishes for medical and end-of-life care.
2
Financial & Asset Organization
Create a Master List of Assets:
All bank accounts (Checking, Savings, CDs).
All investment accounts (Brokerage, 401(k), IRAs, HSAs).
Physical property deeds (Home, other real estate).
Vehicle titles (Cars, boats, RVs).
Other valuables (Jewelry, art, collectibles).
Create a Master List of Liabilities:
Mortgages and home equity loans.
Car loans.
Student loans.
Credit card debt.
Any other outstanding loans.
Review All Beneficiary Designations:
Life Insurance Policies.
Retirement Accounts (401(k), IRA).
Annuities.
Payable-on-Death (POD) / Transfer-on-Death (TOD) accounts.
Crucial: Beneficiary designations override your will. Ensure they are up-to-date.
3
Digital Life & Final Wishes
Compile a Digital Asset Inventory:
Create a secure list of important online accounts and passwords (or password manager access).
Include email, social media, cloud storage, and financial logins.
Appoint a “Digital Executor” in your will to manage or close these accounts.
Document Your Final Wishes:
State your preference for burial or cremation.
Outline any funeral or memorial service preferences.
Note where important documents are located.
4
Review & Finalize Your Plan
Store Documents Safely:
Keep original documents in a secure place (like a fireproof safe or with your attorney).
Ensure your Executor and/or agent knows where to find them.
Inform Key People:
Let your Executor, Guardians, and POA agents know you have appointed them and discuss their roles.
Schedule a Review:
Set a calendar reminder to review your estate plan every 3-5 years, or after any major life event (marriage, divorce, birth of a child, significant financial change).
Michael’s Pro-Tip:
Don’t wait for perfection. A simple, legally valid will created today is infinitely better than a perfect one you never get around to writing. Start messy, but start now.
Disclaimer: This checklist is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional legal or financial advice. Consult with a qualified attorney to ensure your estate plan complies with your state’s laws.