The Estate Management Checklist: Are You Truly Prepared?

Estate planning isn’t just about transferring wealth—it’s about protecting the people you love, simplifying the process for your heirs, and ensuring your wishes are honored. Whether you’re nearing retirement or already enjoying it, having a complete and updated estate plan is one of the most meaningful gifts you can leave behind.

This Estate Management Checklist highlights the essential documents, decisions, and conversations that help create clarity for you and your family.

1. Do You Have a Will?

A will outlines who will inherit your property and assets, and it allows you to name guardians for minor children. Without one, state laws—not your preferences—will determine how your estate is distributed.

2. Are Your Healthcare Documents in Place?

Healthcare documents ensure your medical wishes are honored if you’re unable to speak for yourself. Essential documents include:

Living Will – outlines your preferences for end-of-life care
Healthcare Power of Attorney – authorizes someone to make medical decisions on your behalf
Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare – provides ongoing authority if you become incapacitated

These documents ease emotional burden for your loved ones during difficult moments.

3. Do You Have the Necessary Financial Documents?

Financial directives ensure someone you trust can manage your affairs if you’re unable to. These may include:

Joint ownership arrangements
Durable Power of Attorney
Living trusts

These tools help maintain control, ensure continuity, and reduce potential court involvement.

4. Have You Filed Beneficiary Forms?

Naming beneficiaries on accounts like IRAs, 401(k)s, and bank accounts allows assets to pass directly to your loved ones—often avoiding probate. In some cases, you may need to complete “Payable on Death” or “Transfer on Death” forms to ensure everything is properly titled.

5. Do You Have the Right Amount and Type of Life Insurance?

Life insurance plays a major role in protecting your family’s financial future. Consider:

Current financial obligations
Income replacement needs
Debt levels
Future goals (education, caregiving, etc.)

Remember, age, health, and policy type all affect cost and insurability. Review your coverage periodically to ensure it still aligns with your goals.

6. Have You Considered Potential Federal Estate Tax?

For high-net-worth families—those projected to exceed $30 million in 2026 as estate thresholds adjust advanced planning may be necessary. Proper strategies can help reduce tax impact and preserve more of your legacy.

7. Is Your Business Protected?

If you own a business, your estate plan should include:

A clear succession plan
Buy-sell agreements (if co-owned)
Instructions for ongoing operations

Your business is likely one of your largest assets protecting it is essential.

8. Have You Written a Letter of Instruction?

A letter of instruction isn’t a legal document, but it’s incredibly valuable. It may include:

Personal wishes
Funeral preferences
Passwords
Guidance for heirs
Contact information for advisors

This simple step can save your family time, uncertainty, and stress.

9. Can Your Heirs Locate All Critical Documents?

Your heirs should know where to find:

Your will
Trust documents
Life insurance policies
Deeds, titles, stock certificates
Retirement account information
Bank accounts and safe deposit box details
Mortgage, loan, and credit information

Even the best estate plan fails if no one knows where anything is.

The Bottom Line

Estate planning is not just a legal task—it’s an act of love, clarity, and stewardship. And you don’t need to navigate the complexities alone.

Next Steps

If you’re ready to get organized and protect your legacy, schedule an Estate Planning Review with me.

Together, we’ll ensure your documents are complete, your plan is up to date, and your family is prepared for the future.

👉 Reach out today to create the peace of mind you—and your loved ones—deserve.

Osaic Wealth, Inc. does not provide legal advice.