Two people reviewing legal documents together at a table

A simple, prioritized checklist to work through — you don't need to complete this in one sitting, but it's worth having the full list in view.

The core documents

  1. Durable power of attorney (finances)
  2. Health care proxy / medical power of attorney
  3. Living will / advance directive
  4. HIPAA release form
  5. Last will and testament (or a funded revocable trust)
  6. Beneficiary designations, reviewed and current
  7. A written list of accounts, key contacts, and where documents are stored
Use the Care Team Builder to track which of these you've completed and who holds copies.
This article is general information, not legal advice. Requirements vary by state — an elder law attorney can help you finalize each document correctly.