Learning Center

Estate Planning Guides

Everything you need to understand estate planning — from the basics to advanced strategies. Written by attorneys and financial planners, explained in plain English.

Beginner

Estate Planning 101

Everything you need to know to get started with estate planning, from basic documents to understanding your options.

8 articles

Intermediate

Wills & Trusts

A deep dive into the difference between wills and trusts, when you need each, and how to set them up correctly.

12 articles

Intermediate

Understanding Probate

What probate is, how it works, how much it costs, and the most effective strategies to avoid it.

6 articles

Beginner

Protecting Your Family

Guardianship, life insurance, special needs planning, and everything you need to protect the people you love.

9 articles

Advanced

Elder Law & Medicaid

Long-term care planning, Medicaid eligibility, nursing home costs, and strategies to protect your assets.

7 articles

Advanced

Business Succession Planning

How to protect your business, plan for ownership transfer, and ensure your life's work outlasts you.

5 articles

Free Resource

The Estate Planning Checklist

Not sure where to start? Use this 10-step checklist to build your estate plan from scratch. Each step links to a detailed guide.

Make a list of all your assetsStep 1

Choose your beneficiariesStep 2

Decide between a will and a trustStep 3

Appoint an executor or trusteeStep 4

Name a guardian for minor childrenStep 5

Create a durable power of attorneyStep 6

Create a healthcare proxyStep 7

Fund your trust (if applicable)Step 8

Store documents safelyStep 9

Review every 3–5 yearsStep 10