Your heirs will thank you. Eventually.

The Estate Planning Pyramid Information Hub

Estate planning does not have to be confusing. The Estate Planning Pyramid breaks it into clear steps, showing you what to focus on first and what to build over time. It is a simple way to get organized, stay on track, and protect the people and things that matter most.

Estate Planning Pyramid Overview 1

Table of Contents

What Is The Estate Planning Pyramid?

The Estate Planning Pyramid shows you how to build a complete plan, one smart step at a time.

What It Is

  • 1

    The Pyramid organizes estate planning into three clear levels of documents and tools: 1) Core, 2) Comprehensive, 3) Advanced.

  • 2

    You start with core legal documents that everyone should have.

  • 3

    You add comprehensive documents that organize your personal, financial, and final wishes.

  • 4

    You expand into advanced planning documents if your life, family, or assets call for it.

Why It Matters

  • 1

    Estate planning can feel overwhelming without a clear structure.

  • 2

    The Pyramid gives you a practical way to think about what documents you need now and what you might add later.

  • 3

    It keeps you focused, organized, and ready without getting stuck in the weeds.

How It Helps You

  • 1

    See exactly what documents protect you and your family

  • 2

    Focus on the right documents for your life right now

  • 3

    Understand when more advanced planning might make sense

  • 4

    Build a complete plan without missing critical pieces

Key Things To Know

Estate planning is not one decision. It is a set of documents and choices that work together to protect your future.

  • Core documents protect everyone: Wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives are essential no matter your wealth, family size, or age.
  • Organization matters just as much as legal paperwork: Even the best plan fails if no one knows where to find it.
  • Not everyone needs advanced planning: Trusts, foundations, and business succession strategies are powerful tools, but they are not required for every estate.
  • Your plan should grow as your life changes: Marriage, children, career changes, retirement, and new assets are natural reasons to update.
  • Good planning protects both financial and emotional legacies: Asset transfers are important, but so are final wishes, personal letters, and memories that shape your family's future.
  • Starting is more important than finishing perfectly: You do not need an expert-level estate plan to make a difference. Even small steps today can prevent major problems later.

Explore Your Estate Planning Pyramid

Estate Planning Pyramid Tier 1 1
Estate Planning Pyramid Tier 2 1
Estate Planning Pyramid Tier 3 1

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about how the Estate Planning Pyramid works? Here are some quick answers to help you get started.

No. Most people will only need the Core Documents and parts of the Comprehensive level. Advanced planning is only needed if you have special circumstances like owning a business, managing a large estate, or setting up a charitable legacy.

Start with the Core Documents. They cover the most important basics like naming guardians, protecting your assets, and giving someone authority to help you if needed. You can always build more later, but the Core protects you right now.

Yes. Estate planning is not one and done. You may start with Core Documents today, then add Comprehensive or Advanced tools later as your life, family, or finances change.

No. Advanced tools like trusts and donor advised funds are often used by high-net-worth families, but they can also protect everyday families with special needs, blended families, or business ownership concerns. The point is to use the tools that fit your real life, not just your bank account.

You are still in a better place than if you had nothing started. Estate planning is a process, not a pass or fail test. Even a partial plan can save your family major time, stress, and legal headaches. You can always add or update over time.

Information Hub Feedback & Suggestions

Do you have a question, suggestion, or idea on how to improve this Information Hub? If so, we'd love to hear from you.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this website and by Buried in Work is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult with a qualified attorney or subject matter expert for advice specific to your situation.