What Documents Make Up a Complete Estate Plan?

When people hear “Estate Plan,” they often picture a single document — usually a will. In reality, a complete Estate Plan is more like a toolkit. Each document serves a specific purpose, and together they create clarity, protection, and peace of mind for you and your loved ones. Estate Planning rules are set at the state level, which means the documents that make up a complete plan — and how they work — depend on where you live.

An Estate Plan isn’t about having paperwork — it’s about having the right paperwork, working together.

The Core Documents in a Typical Estate Plan

1. A Will

A Will outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death and who should be responsible for carrying out those instructions (your personal representative or executor). If you have minor children, this is also where you name guardians. In Michigan, a Will only controls assets that go through probate, which is why many people are surprised to learn it doesn’t cover everything they own.

What a will does not do:

• Avoid probate
• Control assets with beneficiary designations
• Address incapacity during your lifetime

2. A Trust (When Appropriate)

Not everyone needs a trust, but for many families, trusts provide important benefits. A trust can help avoid probate, control how and when assets are distributed, protect beneficiaries, and provide continuity if you become incapacitated.

Trusts are especially common when:

• You want privacy
• You own property in multiple states
• You want structured distributions
• You are planning for long-term care or special needs

3. Durable Power of Attorney

This document allows someone you trust to handle financial matters if you are unable to do so yourself. Without it, your family may need to go to court to gain authority — even for routine tasks like paying bills or managing accounts.

4. Health Care Power of Attorney

This names a person to make medical decisions for you if you cannot communicate your wishes. It ensures someone who knows you — and your values — is speaking on your behalf. In Michigan, this document is often called a Patient Advocate Designation.

5. Advance Directive / Living Will

An advance directive outlines your preferences regarding end-of-life care. It removes guesswork and emotional burden from loved ones during difficult moments.

Other Documents That May Be Part of a Plan

Depending on your situation, a complete Estate Plan may also include:

• Beneficiary coordination and asset titling
• Special needs planning documents
• Medicaid or long-term care planning tools
• Business succession documents

Why “Complete” Looks Different for Everyone

There is no one-size-fits-all Estate Plan. A complete plan is one that reflects your family, your assets, your risks, and your goals — not just a checklist.

The Takeaway: Estate Planning isn’t about collecting documents. It’s about making sure each document supports the others and works when it’s actually needed.

A complete Estate Plan is one that works under Michigan law and works for your family. Call or text us at 989-872-5601 to schedule an appointment and discuss what “complete” looks like for you.