Will Checklist and Trust Guide
Answer any of the nine optional questions, then select Show checklist to collect facts and papers for a conversation with a lawyer.
Not a law firm; general information, not legal advice.
This checklist does not tell you which documents you need. Only a lawyer licensed in your state can do that.
Learn what a will, a trust and other planning documents do in general. The explanations are the same for everyone. Your answers only change the facts and papers listed below.
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Checklist date:
What these documents do
Will
In most states, a will records how a person wants property handled after death and names someone to carry out those wishes. It often goes through probate court. A lawyer can explain which property a will covers.
Revocable living trust
A revocable living trust holds property under rules set by the person who creates it. That person can often change it during life, and a trustee manages the property held in it. A lawyer can explain how it works with other documents and whether it applies.
Financial power of attorney
A financial power of attorney gives a named person authority to handle certain money or property matters. In most states, its wording affects when that authority starts and whether it continues if the person signing cannot act. A lawyer can explain its scope and limits.
Health care power of attorney and living will (advance directive)
A health care power of attorney often names someone to make health care decisions when a person cannot make them. A living will often records wishes about medical treatment in certain circumstances. These may be combined in an advance directive; names and rules differ by state. A lawyer can explain how they work where a person lives.
Beneficiary and transfer-on-death forms
Beneficiary forms often name who receives an account or life insurance payment after death. Transfer-on-death forms may serve a similar purpose for certain property in some states. A lawyer can explain how these forms interact with a will or trust.
Guardian naming for minor children
In most states, a parent can record whom they would want to care for minor children if the parent dies. A court often makes the final decision about a guardian. A lawyer can explain where that choice can be recorded and how the court considers it.
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Bring to your lawyer
Papers and details to gather for a conversation:
Questions you could ask a lawyer
Rules differ by state. A lawyer licensed where you live can tell you what applies to you.
Frequently asked questions
Is this checklist advice from a lawyer?
No. Cowerx is not a law firm. This page gives general information, not legal advice. Only a lawyer licensed in your state can say what applies to you.
Is anything saved or sent?
No. Nothing is uploaded. Everything runs in your browser; your answers are never sent or saved. No account or sign up is needed.
Does this tell me whether a will or trust applies to me?
No. This checklist explains documents in general and lists papers and facts to bring to a lawyer. Only a lawyer licensed in your state can tell you which documents apply to you.
What is probate?
Probate is the court process many states use to handle a person's property and debts after death. In most states, it can involve checking a will, paying debts and distributing property. Rules differ by state, and a lawyer can explain what applies.
What can I bring to a lawyer?
Photo ID, a list of assets and debts, and names and contact details of people you might name are a starting point for a conversation. Depending on the facts, other papers to gather can include deeds, account statements, beneficiary forms, business papers, benefit letters and existing will or trust papers.
Is it free?
Yes. The checklist is free, with no account or sign up. Printing or saving as PDF uses your browser.