Your Complete 2026 Estate Planning Resolution Checklist

Starting the new year with a clear plan for your estate can bring you confidence and security. Estate planning is not just for the wealthy; it ensures your instructions are honored, your loved ones are protected, and your assets are managed. This checklist will guide you through essential steps to create or update your estate plan in 2026, helping you gain peace of mind for the year ahead. Download our free checklist at the end of this article!

Review and Update Your Will

Your will is the foundation of your estate plan. It specifies how your assets will be distributed and who will care for any minor children. If you already have a will, check if it reflects your current instructions and family situation. Life changes such as marriage, divorce, births, or deaths may require updates to your will.

• Confirm that your executor is still the right person to manage your estate.

• Update beneficiaries to reflect any changes in relationships or preferences.

• Add specific instructions for personal items or sentimental belongings.

  
  

If you don’t have a will, make it a priority to create one this year. Without a will, state laws might determine how your assets are divided, which may not align with your instructions.

Establish or Review Powers of Attorney

Powers of attorney allow someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you are alive, but unable to do so. There are two main types to consider:

• Financial Power of Attorney: Grants authority to manage your finances, real property, pay bills, and handle investments.

• Healthcare Power of Attorney: Allows someone to make medical decisions for you if you cannot communicate your instructions.

  
  

Review these documents to ensure the designated agents are still appropriate and willing to serve. Update contact information and instructions as needed.

Create or Update a Living Will

A living will outlines your preferences pertaining to your end-of-life medical treatment. This document guides healthcare providers and family members during difficult decisions.

• Specify your wishes regarding life support, resuscitation, and pain management.

• Discuss your preferences with family to avoid confusion or conflict.

• Keep a copy accessible and share it with your healthcare agent and doctor.

  
  

Organize and Protect Important Documents

Gather all essential documents related to your estate and keep them in a secure but accessible place. This includes:

• Your will and trusts

• Powers of attorney

• Living will or advance healthcare directive

• Insurance policies

• Property deeds and titles

• Financial account information

• List of digital assets and passwords

  
  

Consider using a fireproof safe or a secure digital vault. Inform your executor or trusted family members where these documents are stored, and how to access the contents.

Consider Setting Up a Trust

Trusts can provide greater control over how your assets are distributed and may help avoid probate, saving time and costs for your heirs. Common types include:

• Revocable Living Trust: You maintain control during your lifetime and can make changes as needed.

• Irrevocable Trust: Transfers assets out of your estate, which can reduce taxes and protect assets from creditors.

  
  

Trusts are especially useful if you want to provide for minor children, family members with special needs, or manage assets over time. Consult with an estate planning attorney to determine if a trust fits your situation.

Plan for Digital Assets

Digital assets include online accounts, social media profiles, cryptocurrencies, and digital files. Many people overlook these in their estate plans, which can create challenges for beneficiaries.

• Make a list of all digital accounts and passwords.

• Specify how you want these accounts handled after your death.

• Use a trusted digital estate service or include instructions in your will.

  
  

Communicate Your Plan Clearly

Sharing your estate plan with key people reduces confusion and conflict later. Talk with your executor, agents under powers of attorney, and family members about your instructions.

• Explain your decisions and the location of important documents.

• Encourage open conversations about your values and intentions.

• Update your plan if circumstances or preferences change.

  
  

Review Beneficiary Designations

Some assets may pass outside of your will through beneficiary designations. These include:

• Retirement accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s

• Life insurance policies

• Payable-on-death bank accounts

  
  

Check these designations to ensure they align with your current instructions. Update them if necessary to avoid unintended disinheritance or conflicts.

Plan for Taxes and Debts

Estate taxes and debts can reduce the value of what you leave behind. Work with a financial advisor or estate attorney to:

• Understand potential estate tax liabilities based on your state and federal laws.

• Develop strategies to minimize taxes, such as gifting or trusts.

• Ensure debts are managed or paid off to avoid burdening heirs.

  
  

Schedule Regular Reviews

Estate planning is not a one-time task. Set a reminder to review your plan every three years or after major life events. This keeps your plan current and effective.

Download Your 2026 Estate Planning Checklist