4 Estate Planning Documents Everyone Should Have in Place
Most people put off estate planning because they think it’s only for the wealthy or something to worry about later in life. The reality is that every adult in Connecticut — regardless of age or wealth — should have a few key documents in place to protect themselves and their families.
If something unexpected happens, these four documents make sure your wishes are respected, your finances are handled, and your loved ones aren’t left scrambling.
1. Last Will and Testament
A will is the cornerstone of an estate plan. It allows you to:
Decide who inherits your property and assets.
Name guardians for minor children.
Appoint an executor to carry out your wishes.
Without a will, state law decides these issues for you — and the outcome may not reflect what you wanted.
2. Power of Attorney (POA)
A power of attorney lets you designate someone you trust to make financial and legal decisions if you become unable to do so yourself. This can include:
Managing your bank accounts.
Paying bills.
Handling real estate or business matters.
Without a POA, your family may need to go to court to get permission — a process that’s time-consuming and stressful.
3. Healthcare Directive (Advance Directive)
A healthcare directive, also known as a medical directive, ensures your healthcare decisions are carried out if you can’t speak for yourself. It typically includes:
Naming a healthcare proxy or agent to make decisions on your behalf.
Outlining your preferences for treatments, procedures, or life support.
This removes uncertainty and spares your family from having to guess or argue over what you would have wanted.
4. Living Will
A living will is different from a last will and testament. Instead of dealing with property, it’s a written statement of your medical treatment preferences. It often covers:
End-of-life decisions.
Use of feeding tubes, ventilators, or other life-sustaining measures.
Having a living will gives your family and doctors clear guidance — and helps prevent painful disagreements during an already difficult time.
⚠️ Why These Documents Matter
Without these four basic documents, you risk leaving your loved ones unprepared. Decisions that could have been simple and private may end up in probate court or create conflict within the family.
✅ Next Step
The best time to put these documents in place is before you need them. Whether you’re young and just starting a family, a business owner planning for the future, or approaching retirement, these documents form the foundation of a sound estate plan.
At Osprey Legal, we help Connecticut families create clear, comprehensive estate plans so you can focus on what matters most: living your life with peace of mind.