The 5 Essential Documents in a Texas Estate Plan

Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy or elderly—it's for anyone who wants to make sure their wishes are honored and their loved ones are protected. While a will is often the first document people think of, a complete Texas estate plan should include several other key documents.

At Haugen Law Firm, P.C., we help clients throughout North Texas build solid estate plans tailored to their lives. Below are the five essential documents every Texas estate plan should include—and what each one does.

1. Last Will and Testament

The foundation of most estate plans, a will outlines:

• Who inherits your assets when you pass away
• Who will serve as your executor
• Who should care for your minor children, if applicable
• Any special gifts or instructions

Without a will, Texas intestacy laws decide who gets your property—which may not align with your wishes. A properly executed will gives you control over your estate and helps avoid unnecessary conflict among heirs.

2. Statutory Durable Power of Attorney (POA)

This document allows you to appoint someone to handle financial and legal matters on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

Your chosen agent can:

• Pay bills
• Access bank accounts
• Manage investments or property
• Sign legal documents for you

Without a POA, your loved ones may need to go through an expensive guardianship process to manage your affairs.

Pro Tip: Make sure your power of attorney is "durable," meaning it stays in effect if you lose capacity.

3. Medical Power of Attorney

A medical power of attorney allows you to name a trusted person to make healthcare decisions for you if you're unable to communicate.

This includes:

• Authorizing treatments
• Choosing hospitals or doctors
• Making decisions about long-term care

This is crucial for ensuring your medical care reflects your wishes and that the right person—not the court—is in charge.

4. Advance Directive (Living Will)

Also known as a Directive to Physicians, this document tells doctors what life-sustaining treatments you do or do not want if you’re terminally ill or permanently unconscious.

This takes the pressure off family members in emotionally difficult moments and ensures your medical preferences are honored.

5. HIPAA Authorization

The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) limits who can access your medical information. A HIPAA authorization form lets you designate individuals who can:

• Speak with your healthcare providers
• Receive updates about your condition
• Help make informed decisions about your care

Without this, even your closest family members may be kept in the dark during a medical emergency.

Bonus: Consider a Revocable Living Trust

While not essential for every estate, a revocable living trust can help:

• Avoid probate
• Simplify asset distribution
• Manage complex estates or privacy concerns

Trusts are especially helpful for blended families, business owners, and those with out-of-state property.

Why These Documents Matter

Together, these five documents give you a comprehensive plan for:

• What happens if you become incapacitated
• What happens after your death
• Who will be in charge, and under what authority

Having just a will is a start—but it doesn’t protect you while you're still alive. A complete estate plan ensures you're covered from every angle.

Ready to Create or Update Your Estate Plan?

At Haugen Law Firm, P.C., we guide clients through the estate planning process with clarity, compassion, and personalized attention. Whether you're starting from scratch or updating an existing plan, we make it simple and stress-free.

Don’t leave your future to chance—put your wishes in writing. Let Haugen Law Firm, P.C. help you protect what matters most.