Essential Documents Checklist

A quick guide to peace of mind and preparedness

Health & Care

• Advance Health Care Directive (Living Will) — Outlines your wishes for medical treatment and end-of-life care.
• Health Care Proxy / Power of Attorney for Health Care — Names the person who can make medical decisions on your behalf.
• HIPAA Authorization — Gives your trusted person access to medical information when it’s needed most.

Finances & Legal Affairs

• Durable Power of Attorney for Finances — Lets someone you trust manage bills, accounts, and property if you can’t.
• Will or Revocable Living Trust — Ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and may help avoid probate.

Practical Information

• List of Accounts, Passwords, and Contacts — Includes online logins and key professional contacts (attorney, financial advisor, physician).
• Funeral or Final Wishes Statement — Outlines preferences for burial, cremation, service, or special readings and music.