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Guide · Getting started · Updated June 2026
Estate Planning Checklist for Michigan Families
Not sure where to begin? This Michigan-specific checklist covers the essentials every family should have in place.
Estate planning can feel overwhelming, but it comes down to a handful of documents and decisions. Here’s a practical checklist for Michigan families.
Core documents every Michigan family needs
- A will — names beneficiaries, an executor, and guardians for minor children.
- A living trust, if you want to avoid probate and keep things private.
- A durable financial power of attorney.
- A patient advocate designation and living will.
Beyond the documents
- Review beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance.
- Make a list of accounts, property, and digital assets for your representative.
- Talk with the people you’re naming — executor, trustee, guardian, patient advocate.
- Consider long-term care planning if aging or illness is a concern.
Review it regularly
A plan isn’t “set and forget.” Revisit it after any major life change and every few years to keep it current.
You don’t have to tackle this alone. A Michigan attorney can turn this checklist into a complete, valid plan in a couple of meetings.
Ready to check these off?
Get matched with a vetted Michigan estate planning attorney — free, with no obligation.