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Guide · Estate & legacy

Estate planning basics: protect your family and your legacy.

The documents, beneficiaries and plans that keep your family from guessing, and the common gaps to check today.

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The core documents

Four documents most families need.

An estate plan is more than a will. These are the pieces that protect you and your family while you’re living and after.

WillSays who receives what you own and who settles your estate.
Financial power of attorneyLets someone you trust manage money and bills if you can’t.
Medical power of attorney & directiveNames who makes health care decisions for you and records your wishes.
Trust (sometimes)Can help avoid probate or manage how money passes to heirs.
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Final arrangements worksheet

Write down your wishes so family isn’t left guessing.

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Beyond the documents

The gaps that catch families off guard.

  • Beneficiary designations.IRAs, 401(k)s and life insurance pass to the named beneficiary, even if your will says otherwise. Review them after any life change.
  • Transfer-on-death options.Bank accounts can name payable-on-death beneficiaries, and Texas allows a transfer on death deed for real estate.
  • Final arrangements.Written wishes and a plan for expenses spare family hard decisions.
  • Taxes for heirs.Most non-spouse heirs must empty an inherited IRA within 10 years. A Roth conversion can soften that tax bill.
  • Account access.A secure list of accounts and passwords keeps things from stalling.
  • The family conversation.Talking now prevents surprises and disagreements later.
Free tool · 5 minutesHow ready is your plan? Take the Legacy Stress Test.Ten quick questions. See your gaps and what to tackle first.
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Estate Planning Essentials: Protect Your Family and Your Legacy

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This guide is general information, not legal advice. Platinum Tax Advisory does not prepare wills or trusts; consult an estate planning attorney for legal documents.

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