Free Guide

The Complete Estate Planning Checklist

A free, printable estate planning checklist covering everything from your will and beneficiaries to digital assets and final wishes — so nothing important is missed.

Use this checklist to make sure your estate plan is complete. Print it, work through it at your own pace, and tick each item as you go. Most people can cover the essentials in a weekend.

1. The essential documents

  • A valid, signed and witnessed will — you can write one free here.
  • A power of attorney for finances.
  • A healthcare directive / living will.
  • Beneficiary designations on accounts and policies (these override your will).

2. People

  • Executor named (plus a backup).
  • Guardians named for any minor children.
  • Beneficiaries listed clearly, with backups.
  • Everyone who needs to know has been told their role.

3. Your assets

  • Property and real estate.
  • All bank and savings accounts (including dormant and online-only).
  • Investments, pensions and retirement accounts.
  • Life insurance policies.
  • Vehicles and valuables.
  • Business interests.

4. Digital assets (often forgotten)

  • Cryptocurrency wallets and exchange accounts.
  • Online financial accounts (PayPal, Wise, brokerage apps).
  • Domains, websites and online income.
  • Photo libraries, email and social accounts.
For each asset, the key question is: *would my family know it exists, and know how to claim it?* If not, record it in a secure vault — instructions only, never passwords.

5. Final wishes

  • Funeral or memorial preferences.
  • Any charitable gifts.
  • A letter of wishes for personal items and messages.

6. Keep it current

  • Review after marriage, divorce, births or deaths.
  • Update whenever you open or close major accounts.
  • Re-check at least every two to three years.

Ready to put your plan into action?

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Frequently asked questions

What should be included in an estate plan?

At minimum: a valid will, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, up-to-date beneficiary designations, a complete asset inventory (including digital assets), and your final wishes.

Is this estate planning checklist free?

Yes. The full checklist is free to read, print, or save as a PDF, with no payment required.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Estate and inheritance rules vary by jurisdiction — consult a qualified professional for your specific situation.