Estate planning does not have to be confusing.

The Estate Planning Pyramid Information Hub

The Estate Planning Pyramid is a framework designed to help you build a complete estate plan from the ground up.

It starts with the Core level, which includes essential documents and decisions that every adult should have in place. The Comprehensive level adds tools and information that apply to most people, helping you get organized and think through key aspects of your estate. The top level, Advanced, covers more complex topics such as trusts, business succession, and family foundations that are relevant in specific situations.

Each level builds on the one below it, providing a clear and structured path forward.

Estate Planning Pyramid Overview 1

Table of Contents

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

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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.

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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.