Estate planning is not only for people with substantial wealth. It can help clarify who should receive your property, who may make financial or healthcare decisions for you, and how your family should handle important matters if you become incapacitated or pass away.

Depending on your situation, an estate plan may include a will, trust, durable power of attorney, medical power of attorney, advance directive, and beneficiary-designation review. The appropriate documents depend on your assets, family structure, and objectives.

When someone dies without a valid will, Texas intestacy laws generally determine who inherits the estate. The result may not match the person’s preferences, particularly when there are children, blended families, unmarried partners, or complicated assets.

It is sensible to review your plan after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, a death in the family, a significant change in assets, or a move to another state. Changes in relationships and beneficiary designations may also warrant an update.

Online forms may not account for your specific family structure, property, or goals. Documents must also satisfy applicable legal requirements. An attorney can help identify potential gaps, explain your options, and prepare documents intended to work together as a complete plan.