Obtain permission of people I would like to name to represent me in these (estate planning) documents.

Have my will and/or trust drafted or updated.

Carefully read each legal document.

Make a list describing whom I want to receive each of my personal belongings and put it with my will.

Explain to family members that I have a will and tell them its location as well as the location of other important documents (see Step 2).

Give a copy of my will to my executor or personal representative.

Give a copy of my trust to my trustee.

Give a copy of my living will to my attorney, doctor, hospital, and family.

Have a current durable power of attorney for health care and family.

Give a copy of my durable power of attorney for health care to my attorney, doctor, hospital, and family.

Have a current durable power of attorney for financial affairs.

Give a copy of my durable power of attorney for financial affairs to my attorney and all appropriate financial institutions.

Have written a letter of farewell to your spouse, children, and other close family members or friends.