California Estate Planning Checklist: What You Need to Do Before You Die
When it comes to securing your legacy and protecting your loved ones, estate planning is essential—especially in a state like California, where probate can be slow and expensive. Whether you're just getting started or reviewing an existing plan, this checklist will walk you through the must-do steps for effective estate planning in California.
Create a Living Trust and Will
Without a trust, your assets will be distributed according to California’s intestate succession laws—not necessarily how you’d prefer.
Living Trust: Allows your estate to avoid probate, which can save time, money, and privacy.
Will: Outlines who becomes guardian of your minor children.
Create a Financial Power of Attorney
A Financial Power of Attorney (or Durable Power of Attorney) allows someone you trust to manage your financial and legal matters if you become incapacitated.
Complete an Advance Healthcare Directive
The Advance Healthcare Directive (or healthcare power of attorney) lets you:
Specify your medical treatment preferences.
Appoint a health care agent to make decisions on your behalf.
Update Beneficiary Designations
Check your designated beneficiaries on your assets and make sure that they comport with your trust and estate planning documents. Talk to your attorney to determine the best options for each of the following assets:
Life insurance policies
Retirement accounts (IRA, 401k)
Payable-on-death (POD) or transfer-on-death (TOD) accounts
Inventory Your Assets
Make a comprehensive list of:
Real estate
Bank and investment accounts
Vehicles
Business interests
Digital assets (passwords, crypto, etc.)
This makes it easier for your executor or trustee to manage your estate efficiently.
Review and Update Your Plan Regularly
Life changes—so should your estate plan.
Review every 3–5 years, or after major life events:
Marriage, divorce
Birth of a child
Buying property
Retirement
Estate planning may sound overwhelming, but with the right checklist, you can take control of your future and spare your family unnecessary stress. In California, where probate costs and delays are significant, creating a clear, updated estate plan is one of the most important gifts you can leave behind. Contact me for a complimentary consultation