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Published:
November 2, 2021

Wills & Trusts Kit For Dummies

Overview

Protect your family’s future

If you’re among the millions of Americans without an estate plan, you’re not alone—and you’re probably not sure where to start. The third edition of Wills & Trusts Kit For Dummies cuts through the confusion and gives you a clear path forward. This isn't just another legal manual. It's your roadmap to protecting what you've built and making sure your loved ones are taken care of—without the stress, guesswork, or unnecessary costs.

From basic estate planning fundamentals to modern challenges like digital assets and cryptocurrency, this book covers everything you need to know. It translates intimidating legal concepts into language you can actually understand, and if you’re still overwhelmed, a step-by-step strategy guide helps you start right where you are. You’ll also get immediate access to online forms, worksheets, and templates you can actually use—not just read about.

  • Create a will or trust that suits your specific situation (because one-size-fits-all doesn't fit all families)
  • Learn about developing technologies such as AI-powered estate planning tools, electronic wills, and online notarization
  • Handle your digital legacy—from social media accounts to Bitcoin wallets
  • Build a court-ready estate plan using downloadable templates and worksheets

Wills & Trusts Kit For Dummies takes the anxiety out of estate planning and puts you in control. Your family’s future is too important to leave to chance. Start protecting what matters most—today.

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About The Author

Aaron Larson is an attorney focusing on civil appeals and producing self-help resources. He previously developed estate planning education programs for lawyers at the Institute of Continuing Legal Education.

Sample Chapters

wills & trusts kit for dummies

CHEAT SHEET

Taking the time and attention to write a will and set up a trust — or a couple of trusts — are acts of generosity that your heirs and loved ones will appreciate in their time of grief. To do it right, you need to keep track of the people and papers involved, plan for incapacity, and know what you need from an estate plan, then review your plan regularly and especially after significant life changes.

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Articles from
the book

It’s not easy to think about, but your will and trust(s) need to include provisions that go into effect if you become incapacitated for any reason. Your executor and your heirs will be grateful for your forethought. Keep in mind the following points about planning for incapacity: If you don’t create a plan for your incapacity, a court may appoint somebody to oversee your personal and financial needs.
You want your will and trust to be legal, so it makes sense to meet with a lawyer to form your estate plan. Lawyers who specialize in estate planning can help you cover all contingencies and help make sure that your plan is complete. Use the tips in the following list to prepare for your meeting: Ask about your lawyer’s experience.
The professionals who help you set up your will and trusts can be useful not only during the creation of these documents, but also later on if you want to make changes. They can be invaluable resources for your executor and loved ones when the time comes. Keep a list of the names, addresses, and phone numbers
You should review your estate plan, including your will and any trusts, on a periodic basis to be sure that your inheritance planning is consistent with your needs and goals. In addition, review your estate plan upon Marriage, separation or divorce Birth or adoption of a child Death of an heir Move t
You’ve gone to the necessary trouble of drawing up your will and perhaps creating a trust. Now you need to make a list of the locations of important papers and make sure that you and at least one other trusted person know where the list is and where the locations are. Include the locations of the following it
Taking the time and attention to write a will and set up a trust — or a couple of trusts — are acts of generosity that your heirs and loved ones will appreciate in their time of grief. To do it right, you need to keep track of the people and papers involved, plan for incapacity, and know what you need from an estate plan, then review your plan regularly and especially after significant life changes.
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Frequently Asked Questions

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