Estateur Blog
Estate planning in plain English
Understand the documents, decisions, and signing steps that make up a thoughtful estate plan.
Estate planning for new parents
New parents need three decisions: who raises your child, who manages the money and until when, and who acts for you if you cannot.
The beneficiary form that overrides your will
Retirement accounts and life insurance go to whoever is named on the beneficiary form, not to whoever is named in your will. Check every form.
Who inherits if you die without a will?
Without a will, your state's intestacy law decides who inherits: usually spouse and children first, then parents and siblings. Shares vary by state.
The estate planning checklist for 2026
A complete estate plan for most families is four documents, current beneficiary forms, correctly titled property, and a place your family can find it all.
Power of attorney vs. guardianship
A power of attorney is chosen by you in advance. Guardianship is imposed by a court after you can no longer choose. Signing one usually prevents the other.
How to choose an executor (and who to avoid)
Choose an executor who is organized, honest and calm under family pressure. Skill with paperwork matters far more than being the oldest child.
Do you need a lawyer to write a will?
No. Every state lets you make your own will. Whether you should hire a lawyer depends on your family, your assets, and how much advice you need.
What happens to your house when you die?
Your house passes by how it is titled first, then by your will, then by state default rules. Here is how to find out which one applies to your home.
What is probate, and how long does it take?
Probate is the court process that settles an estate after death. Simple estates often close in six to twelve months; contested ones take longer.
Will vs. living trust: which one do you need?
Most families need a will. A living trust earns its extra cost mainly if you own real estate, want privacy, or want to control when children inherit.
How to make a will online, step by step
Making a will online takes about an hour: gather your information, answer guided questions, review the draft, then sign it the way your state requires.
How much does a will cost in 2026?
In 2026, a will typically costs $0 to $200 online and roughly $300 to $1,500 with a lawyer. Here is what drives the price, and what you get for it.
Ready to build your estate plan?
Answer a few questions, get a clear recommendation, and complete your documents through a guided interview.