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Texas Estate Planning Guide
What's in a Complete Texas Estate Plan?
A will is the centerpiece — but a complete plan is really four documents working together, covering both what happens after you're gone and what happens if you're here but can't act. Here's the full picture.
By Rick Villarreal, Attorney · Licensed in Texas since 1996
Most people think "estate plan" means a will. A will is essential, but it only speaks after you die. A complete plan also covers the years before that — the possibility that you're alive but unable to make decisions. In Texas, a complete plan is typically four documents, each solving a different problem.
1
Last Will and Testament
Names who inherits your property, who administers your estate, and who becomes guardian of your minor children. Takes effect at death.
2
Medical Power of Attorney
Names someone to make health care decisions for you if you can't — at any point in your life, not just the end.
3
Durable Power of Attorney
Names someone to manage your finances and legal affairs if you become incapacitated, keeping your family out of guardianship court.
4
Directive to Physicians
Your "living will" — states your wishes about life-sustaining treatment if you're terminally or irreversibly ill.
Why the powers of attorney matter as much as the will
A will does nothing while you're alive. If you're in an accident or develop a serious illness and can't act for yourself, it's the two powers of attorney and the directive that protect you — letting trusted people handle your care and finances without a court's involvement. That's the half of estate planning most people overlook.
How the four fit together
Think of it as two pairs. The will and, where useful, a Transfer on Death Deed handle what happens to your property after death. The two powers of attorney and the directive handle decisions while you're still living but unable to make them. Together they cover the full range of what a family actually faces.
Do you also need a trust?
For many Texans, the four documents above — sometimes with a Transfer on Death Deed — are a complete plan. Some situations call for a trust, which is handled by consultation. A quick call sorts out which camp you're in.
Want the whole plan handled at once?
A quick call is all it takes to get started. No obligation, always at no charge.
Getting it done
The Complete Estate Plan bundles all four documents at one flat fee — less than buying them separately. Most orders completed within one business day.
This article is general information about Texas law, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every situation is different — for advice about your own will, speak with a licensed Texas attorney.
Cover every part in one step
The Complete Estate Plan handles all four documents at one flat fee — will, both powers of attorney, and directive. Most orders completed within one business day.
(713) 588-5914Rick Villarreal, Attorney — Texas Estate Planning
(713) 588-5914 • [email protected] • MyTexasWills.com
State Bar of Texas since 1996 • Consultations are always at no charge.
State Bar of Texas since 1996 • Consultations are always at no charge.