Everyone should do some basic estate planning—that is, planning to make sure that your wishes are followed after your death, your family is spared unnecessary expense and delay, and someone you trust will be in charge if you ever become unable to manage things on your own.
All adults in Texas should consider making the following estate planning documents:
Texas residents may also want to consider taking measures to avoid probate. Although Texas probate is simple compared to that of many other states, many people prefer to avoid probate court proceedings altogether, saving their families money and hassle. But to avoid probate, you’ll need do some planning ahead of time. Probate can be easily avoided with a living trust or other methods.
The articles below cover the basics of Texas estate planning issues.
A will can help you protect your family and your property in Texas.
Learn how to make a living trust in Texas.
If you die without a will in Texas, your assets will go to your closest relatives under state intestate succession laws.
Texas Restrictions on Who Can Serve as Executor
Learn the rules about who can be your executor in Texas.
A durable POA allows someone to help you with your financial matters if you ever become incapacitated—here's how to make one in Texas.
Texas is known (among lawyers, at least) for simple, efficient probate.
Texas offers some probate shortcuts for "small estates." These procedures make it easier for survivors to transfer property left by a person who has died.
Probate court proceedings can be long, costly, and confusing. Learn how Texas families can save time, money, and hassle
Texas has never officially considered adopting a death with dignity law. However, citizen groups are actively working to legalize aid in dying in Texas.
How to Become an Organ Donor in Texas
To be part of the solution to the ongoing need in Texas for donated organs and tissues, take the following steps to become a donor after your death.
Burial and Cremation Laws in Texas
Here are some answers to common questions about post-death matters in Texas.
Learn the rules that govern home funerals in Texas.