Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly — it’s for anyone who wants to protect their loved ones and ensure their wishes are honored. With modern tools like LifeLegacy, getting your affairs in order is easier, faster, and more affordable than ever.

Here’s a practical, easy-to-follow checklist of what to include in your estate plan:

1. Last Will and Testament

Your will is the foundation of your estate plan. It outlines who will inherit your assets, including personal property, money, and real estate. You’ll also:

• Name guardians for minor children or pets
• Choose an executor (the person responsible for carrying out your wishes)
• Make specific gifts to loved ones or charities
• Express your general preferences about your legacy

Creating a will gives you control, clarity, and peace of mind — and helps your loved ones avoid unnecessary court involvement.

2. Revocable Living Trust

While not everyone needs a trust, it can be useful if you have:

• Significant assets or multiple properties
• A blended family or complex inheritance wishes
• A desire to avoid probate or keep distributions private

A trust holds legal ownership of your assets while you're alive, and allows them to transfer directly to your beneficiaries upon your death. Unlike a will, it doesn't go through probate, making the process faster and more private. Trusts are typically created with the help of an estate attorney.

3. Advance Healthcare Directive (AHD)

Also called a living will, this document allows you to: