Legal basics

No will, trust or directive yet? Where to start

You're in good company. Here's the easy order.

Most adults don't have these documents yet. In a 2025 Caring.com survey, only 24% of US adults said they had a will. Writing "None" in your template is honest and useful: it tells your family where things stand, and it gives you a clear list of what to do next.

One reasonable order to tackle them

1. Healthcare directive. It's free, takes about 20 minutes, and your state has a form.
2. Checking beneficiaries. Many people look at whether their life insurance and retirement accounts still name the right people. It usually takes a few minutes online.
3. Financial power of attorney. Often free or cheap, and it keeps your family out of court if you're ever unable to decide.
4. Will. An online service works for many people, and a lawyer is worth it if things are complicated.
5. Trust, if it makes sense. Worth considering if you own a home or want to avoid probate.

You don't have to do them all this month. Even doing just the first two covers a lot.