Once you’ve completed and assembled all your estate planning documents, there are a few critical steps to finalize them and ensure they are legally valid and effective.
1. Download Your Documents
Log in to your account and navigate to the “My Files” section.
Locate your completed documents and download them as a word document.
Review the documents carefully to ensure all information is accurate and complete.
2. Print Your Documents
Print each document on high-quality paper to ensure durability and clarity.
Double-check that all pages are printed correctly and in order.
3. Arrange for Witnesses
Certain documents, such as your Will, may require the signatures of witnesses.
Identify disinterested witnesses (individuals who are not beneficiaries in your Will or estate plan).
Confirm state-specific requirements for the number of witnesses needed (typically two).
4. Get Documents Notarized
Documents such as a Living Will, Power of Attorney, or Trust may require notarization to be legally binding.
Visit a notary public, often available at banks, law offices, or shipping centers like UPS stores.
Bring valid identification (e.g., driver’s license or passport) for the notary process.
5. Fund Your Trust
If you have created a Trust, it’s essential to fund it to ensure it functions properly.
Funding your trust involves transferring assets like real estate, bank accounts, and investment accounts into the trust’s name.
For detailed guidance, visit our article on How do I fund my Trust?
6. Organize and Store the Documents
Keep Originals Safe:
Store the signed originals in a secure location, such as a fireproof safe at home or a safe deposit box at your bank.
Inform Trusted Individuals:
Let your executor, trustee, or key family members know where the documents are stored and how to access them.
Make Copies:
Provide copies to trusted individuals, such as your financial advisor, attorney, or guardian (if applicable).
7. Update Beneficiaries
Ensure that your estate plan aligns with beneficiary designations on accounts like:
Life insurance policies
Retirement accounts (e.g., IRAs, 401(k)s)
Payable-on-death (POD) or transfer-on-death (TOD) accounts
8. Review Your Documents Regularly
Revisit your estate plan after major life changes, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant financial changes.
Update your documents as needed to reflect your current wishes and circumstances.