An estate planning checklist covers what to check and double-check

Estate planning helps descendants handle their family member's legacy and dispense with their final expenses.

First, create a will if there isn't one completed yet. A valid will may save heirs from some expensive headaches linked to probate and ambiguity. A solid will drafted with the guidance of an estate planning attorney will likely cost a bit more than a "will-in-a-box," but it may prove worth the expense.

Complement the will with related documents. Depending on estate planning needs, these related documents could include a trust or multiple trusts, durable financial and medical powers of...