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Michigan Estate & Will Planning Checklist

Plan with Confidence. Protect What Matters.

Step 1: Identify Key Documents

Will
Power of Attorney (financial + medical)
Healthcare Directive
Trust (if needed)

Step 2: Inventory Your Assets

Bank accounts
Real estate
Retirement/investment accounts
Vehicles
Life insurance policies
Business interests

Step 3: Choose Your Key People

Executor or personal representative
Guardian(s) for minor children
Trustees
Financial and healthcare agents

Step 4: Outline Your Wishes

Who inherits what?
Any specific gifts or charitable donations?
Conditions for distribution (if using a trust)?

Step 5: Meet with a Michigan Estate Planning Attorney

Review your goals
Understand your legal options
Ensure documents comply with Michigan law
Plan for trust funding or updates

Built by Experienced Michigan Estate Planning Attorneys

At JBM Law, we’ve spent more than 15 years helping Michigan families, real estate owners, blended families, business owners, and single professionals create thoughtful, effective estate plans.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all planning. Instead, we:

Listen to your goals
Tailor your plan to fit your assets, life stage, and relationships
Explain your options in clear, approachable language
Build plans that avoid probate, minimize taxes, and preserve your legacy

Frequently Asked Questions:

What documents are essential for estate planning in Michigan?

Core documents include a will, durable power of attorney, healthcare directive (patient advocate designation/living will), and—if appropriate—a revocable living trust. Beneficiary designations for life insurance and retirement accounts are also part of a complete plan.

How do I start estate planning in Michigan?

Begin with a checklist: identify key documents, inventory your assets, choose trusted decision-makers (executor, agents, trustees, guardians), and outline who should receive what. Then meet with a Michigan estate planning attorney to tailor and finalize your documents.

How do I create a will in Michigan?

Generally, you must be an adult of sound mind, express your wishes in writing, and sign the will in the presence of two witnesses. Many families also add a self-proving affidavit. A lawyer can ensure your will fits your goals and works with beneficiary designations and any trust.

Is there a Michigan probate checklist?

Yes. A probate checklist typically covers opening the estate, noticing heirs/creditors, inventorying assets, paying debts/taxes, and distributing assets before closing the estate. We can provide a Michigan-specific probate checklist and discuss ways to avoid probate where appropriate.

Where can I find Michigan estate planning forms?

DIY forms exist, but they’re easy to misuse and may not reflect Michigan law or your assets. If you use templates, have a Michigan attorney review them—or better, create documents tailored to your situation to avoid costly mistakes.

Who should I appoint in my estate plan?

Name an executor/personal representative, financial and healthcare agents, and guardians for minor children. If you use a trust, appoint a trustee and one or more successors for each role.

How often should I update my estate plan or checklist?

Review every 3–5 years, and after major life events—marriage, divorce, birth/adoption, a move, new business, or significant changes in assets or health.