The Five Estate Planning Documents Everyone Should Have Notarized

Will, trust, financial power of attorney, healthcare directive, and HIPAA authorization. Here's why each matters and which need notarization.

A basic estate plan has five components. The last will and testament directs the distribution of probate assets. A revocable living trust holds assets that bypass probate. A durable financial power of attorney authorizes a trusted person to manage finances if you become incapacitated. A healthcare directive (or living will) states end-of-life care preferences. A HIPAA authorization releases medical information to named agents.

Notarization requirements vary by document and state. Wills generally require witnesses, not notarization — though a self-proving affidavit attached to the will is notarized. Trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives almost always require notarization.

Review your estate plan after major life events: marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a beneficiary, move to another state.