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Be open about your wishes?within reason. Just as discussing your estate plan can be uncomfortable for you, it can also be uncomfortable for your children and grandchildren, and a better approach may be to begin slowly, and engage over a series of conversations about the relevant topics.

There isn't one universal answer to the question of how to organize your estate planning documents, but in general, keep wills, trust documents, powers of attorney, and other estate planning documents in the same place. You might consider keeping everything in a fireproof metal box or file cabinet, or with your lawyer.

Wills and Trusts Wills ensure property is distributed ing to an individual's wishes (if drafted ing to state laws). Some trusts help limit estate taxes or legal challenges. However, simply having a will or trust isn't enough. The wording of the document is critically important.

All estate plans should include, at minimum, two important estate planning instruments: a durable power of attorney and a will. A trust can also be useful to avoid probate and to manage your estate both during your life and after you are gone.

An estate planning checklist is a guide on how to plan an individual's assets and end-of-life health care if they should die or become incapacitated. By following the checklist, an individual can get an idea of the estate laws in their State and choose which forms suit their personal financial situation best.

The five most important documents to have in your estate plan are your will, a trust, powers of attorney, advanced medical directives, and beneficiary designations.