The Arizona Estate Planning Checklist
A simple, printable checklist of the 12 documents and decisions every Arizona family should have in place. No legal jargon. Just the essentials, explained.
What's in the checklist
A practical, printable list of the documents and decisions that protect your family — and a short note explaining why each one matters.
- 1
Last Will & Testament
Naming your executor, guardians for minor children, and clear bequests.
- 2
Revocable Living Trust
Privately transfer assets and avoid probate. Do not forget to fund it.
- 3
Pour-Over Will
Safety net to sweep any forgotten assets into your living trust.
- 4
Living Will / Advance Directive
Your medical preferences in writing — life support, resuscitation, feeding tubes.
- 5
Durable Power of Attorney (Financial)
A trusted agent to handle bills, taxes, and accounts if you cannot.
- 6
Medical Power of Attorney
A trusted agent to make healthcare decisions when you cannot speak for yourself.
- 7
HIPAA Authorization
Allows your loved ones access to your medical information.
- 8
Beneficiary Designations
Update IRAs, 401(k)s, life insurance — they pass outside your will.
- 9
Real Estate Deeds
Beneficiary deeds can transfer property without probate.
- 10
Digital Asset Inventory
List online accounts, passwords, and digital property.
- 11
Letter of Instruction
Funeral wishes, account locations, contact list for executors.
- 12
Annual Review
Update after marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or major asset changes.
Want help putting the checklist into action?
A no-cost consultation is the easiest way to figure out which documents you actually need.