Estate Planning 101: The five essential documents in your Estate Plan

The Five Essential Documents in Your Estate Plan

Orbit Wills was founded by lawyers who believe estate planning should feel clear, approachable, and empowering. An estate plan is more than just paperwork — it’s a thoughtful way to protect your family, honor your wishes, and provide peace of mind.

If you’ve ever wondered “Why do I need a Will?” or “What does a Power of Attorney actually do?” this guide is for you. Below, we break down the five core documents that make up most estate plans and explain why each one matters.

The Will: Last Wills and Testament

Your Will is your voice after you’re gone. It directs who inherits your assets, names a personal representative to wrap up your affairs, and, if you have children, appoints guardians.

Without a Will, state law decides who gets what and who is in charge. That can mean someone you wouldn’t have chosen ends up managing your estate. It also makes probate more expensive, confusing, and time-consuming for your family.

Think of your Will as a gift of clarity — saving stress, time, and money while ensuring your wishes are honored.

Financial Power of Attorney

Life is unpredictable. A Financial Power of Attorney allows someone you trust to handle your finances if you can’t — paying bills, managing investments, filing taxes, or selling property.

Without it, your loved ones may need to go to court for authority, which can take months and cost thousands. Worse, the court could appoint someone you wouldn’t have chosen.

This document keeps your financial life running smoothly and preserves your autonomy, even in difficult circumstances

Health Care Power of Attorney

Medical decisions often need to be made quickly. A Health Care Power of Attorney lets you appoint someone to make those decisions on your behalf.

Without it, your family may face delays in court or disagreements about who should decide. Doctors may not know who to listen to.

By naming a health care agent, you ensure someone you trust is guiding your care according to your wishes.

Health Care Directive

This is where you make the ultimate decision for yourself. A Health Care Directive allows you to state whether you would want artificially provided food and water if doctors determine there is no brain function and no chance of recovery.

Without it, your health care agent must decide — which can create guilt or conflict among family members.

By writing down your wishes, you relieve your loved ones of that burden. It’s an act of kindness and clarity.

Disposition Authorization

This document specifies what happens to your body after death — burial, cremation, or, in some states, composting.

Without it, all family members must agree, which can be difficult during an emotional time.

By making your choice clear, you prevent conflict and give your family peace of mind.

Your Comprehensive Estate Plan

A complete estate plan includes:

• A Will to direct your assets
• A Financial Power of Attorney for money matters
• A Health Care Power of Attorney for medical decisions
• A Health Care Directive for end-of-life care
• A Disposition Authorization for your final wishes

Together, these documents protect your voice, your family, and your peace of mind. Estate planning isn’t just about legal forms — it’s about caring for the people you love.

Ready to create your own estate plan? Start here to sign-up now and you Orbit Wills working on your estate planning needs.