They do different jobs. A will directs who receives your property and names guardians for minor children, but it generally passes through probate. A revocable living trust can avoid probate for assets actually retitled into it, which matters most for homeowners and anyone owning property in more than one state. Many plans use both.

No. A will is the instruction manual the probate court follows. Assets avoid probate by other means, including trusts, beneficiary designations, payable on death accounts, and certain forms of joint ownership.

Your state's intestacy statute decides who inherits, usually in a fixed order of spouse, children, parents, then more distant relatives. The court appoints an administrator, who is frequently required to post a probate bond. Unmarried partners, stepchildren, and close friends typically receive nothing.

A properly signed and witnessed will is generally valid regardless of who drafted it, but execution rules differ by state and small mistakes can void the document or invite litigation. DIY forms also do nothing about beneficiary designations, jointly titled property, or trust funding, which is where most plans actually fail.

A durable financial power of attorney lets someone manage your money if you cannot. A healthcare power of attorney covers medical decisions. Depending on drafting, it may take effect immediately or only after a physician certifies incapacity. All powers of attorney end at death, when the executor takes over.

Review it after marriage, divorce, a birth, a death, a move to another state, or a significant change in assets. Absent those events, most attorneys suggest a review every three to five years.

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