A Will is the basic document that almost everyone should have.  In addition to setting out how your assets are to pass, it allows for the appointment of a representative of your estate to collect assets or pay your debts.  Beyond a Will, the “necessary” estate planning documents vary according to a client’s needs. Some folks have revocable living trusts as part of their plans, or transfer-on-death deeds, or ladybird deeds, or various beneficiary designation documents.  Determining what is necessary for you, in accordance with your goals, is part of your attorney’s job.