The process of planning your estate can be a daunting one.  Often, you are asked to think about, discuss, and plan for an event that is unpleasant.  For most of us, the plan we develop will not be needed for years.   On top of that, you are then asked to gather numerous documents and verify details about your financial affairs.  For these reasons most either don’t begin the process or abandon it shortly thereafter.  After consulting with an attorney you feel comfortable working with, gathering the following documents may help you begin the process and assist you in determining how your estate should be managed and ultimately distributed. 

• Wills
• Trusts
• Powers of Attorney
• Health Care Proxies and Living Wills
• Declaration of Homestead
• Copy of deed to your primary residence and other real property
• Copies of recent bank or investment accounts
• Copies of life insurance policies
• Copy of previous years tax return

Planning your estate doesn’t have to be stressful, and in the end should leave you with the peace of mind that your loved ones will respect your wishes as to how your estate should be managed and ultimately distributed.