Some people find that creating a living trust is a better choice than utilizing a will as their primary planning documents, but your attorney can best advise you on whether a living trust, will, or both is appropriate for your situation. Some other documents that should be included in your plan are: Updated beneficiary designation forms: Some of your assets do not pass through your will – retirement plan assets, life insurance, and more. It’s important to designate beneficiaries for each of your accounts, and to discuss with your attorney the best way to direct your assets. Financial power of attorney: A power of attorney document authorizes the person you choose to handle financial matters on your behalf if you are not able to or become incapacitated. The power of attorney is limited and only applies to the specific types of matters and transactions you authorize in the document. A financial power of attorney does not grant the authority to make medical decisions on your behalf and is only valid during your lifetime. Advance care directive: This document helps you manage health care decisions. It allows you to share your wishes and preferences for medical and end-of-life care should you be unable to make those decisions for yourself. Depending on your state, you may be able to appoint the person you would like to make the decisions for you. In other states, there is a separate document called a health care power of attorney.