DIY Estate PlanningMORE ARTICLES
How to Write a Will
After you decide that you want a will, how do you write one?
Making a Living Trust: Can You Do It Yourself?
You might be surprised to learn that with good instructions, it's not hard to create your own legally valid living trust document.
WillsMORE ARTICLES
Create a Simple Will
A basic will may be all you need, and making one is easier than you think. Here's how it's done.
What a Will Won't Do
Wills are wonderful, but they can't do it all. Here are some things you shouldn't expect to accomplish in your will.
Living TrustsMORE ARTICLES
Living Trust FAQ
If you're curious about whether a trust is right for your family, start here for basic information about living trusts.
Why Avoid Probate?
Bypassing the probate court system can mean big savings for your family.
Living Wills & Powers of AttorneyMORE
An Overview of Living Wills and Medical DPOAs
Spell out your wishes for medical treatment--and name someone to make sure they're followed.
State Laws on Medical Powers of Attorney
Learn about your state's rules on making living wills and medical powers of attorney.
Financial Powers of AttorneyMORE ARTICLES
Financial Power of Attorney: How it Works
The durable financial power of attorney is a simple way to arrange for someone to handle your finances.
Who Needs a Financial Power of Attorney?
Almost everyone can benefit from a durable power of attorney for finances.
More Estate Planning Topics
Estate Planning Overview
Not sure where to start when it comes to estate planning? Get your bearings here.
How To Avoid Probate
Here's the lowdown on saving your family time and money by bypassing probate court.
Avoiding Family Disputes
After your death, there's nothing you can do about family squabbles--but until then, you can take simple steps that will head off most arguments.
Estate & Inheritance Taxes
After a death, both the state and federal government may tax what's left behind.
Charitable Gifts and Trusts
For many people, an important part of their estate planning is giving to charity.
Getting Your Affairs in Order
Make things easier on yourself--and your family.
Pets and Estate Planning
If your dog or cat--or horse or macaw--might outlive you, it's sensible to make sure they'll be well taken care of.
Executors & Trustees
If you find yourself responsible for the estate or trust of a deceased loved one, these articles can help you.
Other Resources from Nolo
Ask Liza: Everyday Estate Planning
On her "Ask Liza" blog, author and attorney Liza Hanks answers questions on wills, living trusts, and more.
Legal Updates
Check out the latest law changes that affect Nolo estate planning products.
Nolo's Plain-English Law Dictionary
If you run across an unfamiliar legal term, look here for a definition you can understand.