If something happened tomorrow, would your family be covered?
The rich keep four documents in order. See which ones you have.
Your family
Who are you planning for?
Your paperwork
Do you have a will?
Your paperwork
Do you have a living trust?
Your accounts
Are the beneficiaries on your accounts up to date?
Your paperwork
Have you named someone to decide for you if you can’t?
About you
How old are you?
Where you live
Which state do you live in? The rules differ by state.
Checking your paperwork
- Checking your documents
- Finding the gaps
- Building your result
Your Family Paperwork Check
A current will
Without a will, your state’s law decides who inherits. An old one may name people or property that have changed.
Up-to-date beneficiaries
The name on a retirement account or life insurance form usually overrides your will. An old form can send money to an ex.
Powers of attorney for money and health
If you can’t sign and nobody is named, your family may need a court to appoint someone before they can help.
A living trust, if it suits you
A living trust can keep your family out of probate court. Whether you need one depends on your state and what you own.
Fill the gaps this weekend
The Complete Rulebook, with family paperwork worksheets to take to a lawyer. $27 $19 for quiz takers.
General education, not legal advice. Laws vary by state.