5 Key Documents Every Estate Plan Should Include

Anita R. Price PC
Jul 29
3 min read

Estate planning is one of the most thoughtful and responsible steps you can take for yourself and your loved ones. Whether you're just starting the process or reviewing an existing plan, knowing what documents are essential can make all the difference in how your wishes are carried out.

At Anitra Price, Esq., we believe estate planning is about more than distributing assets—it’s about protecting your family, preserving your voice, and minimizing confusion or conflict when it matters most.

Here are five essential documents every comprehensive estate plan should include:

1. 📝 Last Will and Testament

Your will is the foundation of your estate plan. It outlines:

Who will inherit your assets
Who will be the guardian of your minor children (if applicable)
Who will serve as the executor of your estate

Without a valid will, your estate will be handled according to North Carolina’s intestate succession laws, which may not reflect your wishes. Creating a will ensures your property is distributed how you choose—and gives your loved ones clarity during a difficult time.

2. 🏦 Durable Power of Attorney (POA)

This document allows someone you trust (your “agent”) to handle financial and legal matters on your behalf if you're ever incapacitated. This may include:

Paying bills
Managing investments
Handling real estate
Filing taxes

Without a POA in place, your family may have to go through a costly and time-consuming court process to make decisions for you. A durable POA stays in effect even if you become mentally incapacitated.

3. 🏥 Health Care Power of Attorney

Also called a Medical Power of Attorney, this document names someone to make medical decisions for you if you’re unable to speak for yourself. This includes decisions about:

Surgeries or treatments
Long-term care
End-of-life interventions

Choosing someone you trust to advocate for your healthcare preferences is crucial—and it ensures your wishes are respected, even when you can't speak for yourself.

4. 📃 Living Will (Advance Directive)

A Living Will outlines your preferences regarding life-prolonging medical care in the event of a terminal illness or permanent unconsciousness. This document can address:

Resuscitation (CPR)
Mechanical ventilation
Artificial nutrition and hydration

While this document is optional, it provides peace of mind for both you and your family, ensuring that difficult decisions reflect your values.

5. 📂 Revocable Living Trust (Optional, But Powerful)

While not required for everyone, a Revocable Living Trust can:

Help avoid probate
Manage assets during your lifetime
Distribute assets quickly and privately after death
Provide greater control over when and how beneficiaries receive their inheritance

For individuals with more complex estates, blended families, or privacy concerns, a trust can be a wise addition to the core estate planning documents.

💡 Bonus: Beneficiary Designations & Asset Titling

Even with the right documents in place, your estate plan won’t be effective unless your beneficiary designations (on retirement accounts, life insurance, etc.) and property titles are aligned with your plan. An estate planning attorney can help ensure all parts of your plan work together.

⚖️ Make Sure Your Plan Reflects Your Life

Estate planning isn’t one-size-fits-all. The right documents—and how they’re written—depend on your personal goals, your family structure, and the nature of your assets.

At Anitra Price, Esq., we take a compassionate, personalized approach to planning. Whether you're preparing your first will or updating an outdated plan, we’re here to help you protect what matters most.