New York Estate Planning
Get your own affairs in order in New York, for yourself or an aging parent. Compare the documents most adults need (a will, a power of attorney, and a healthcare directive), decide whether you need a trust, and see how to keep your estate out of probate.
Which document do I need?
The core documents at a glance. Each row links to its New York guide.
- Will
- New York will requirements under EPTL 3-2.1: who can make a will, two-witness signing rules, the 30-day window, self-proving affidavits, and revocation. Read the guide
- Living trust
- New York living trust guide covering revocable trusts, probate avoidance, funding, trust signing rules, transfer-on-death deeds, and when a trust may help. Read the guide
- Power of attorney
- New York power of attorney guide covering signing rules, durability, agent authority, third-party acceptance, revocation, and health care limits. Read the guide
- Healthcare directive
- New York health care proxy, written health care instructions, and MOLST under Public Health Law Article 29-C. Covers agents, signing, and when they take effect. Read the guide
New York estate planning guides
New York Estate Planning Basics: Core Documents Every Adult Needs
New York estate planning basics under EPTL 4-1.1: the will, financial power of attorney, and health care proxy you need, plus probate and state estate tax.
New York Will Requirements: How to Make a Valid Will in New York
New York will requirements under EPTL 3-2.1: who can make a will, two-witness signing rules, the 30-day window, self-proving affidavits, and revocation.
New York Power of Attorney
New York power of attorney guide covering signing rules, durability, agent authority, third-party acceptance, revocation, and health care limits.
New York Healthcare Directive Guide
New York health care proxy, written health care instructions, and MOLST under Public Health Law Article 29-C. Covers agents, signing, and when they take effect.
New York Guardianship Planning
New York guardianship planning guide covering Article 81 adult guardianship, minor guardians, Article 17-A, supported decision-making, and alternatives.
New York Living Trust Guide
New York living trust guide covering revocable trusts, probate avoidance, funding, trust signing rules, transfer-on-death deeds, and when a trust may help.
New York Trust Administration Guide
New York trust administration guide for successor trustees after death, including trust terms, fiduciary powers, records, taxes, debts, and distributions.
New York Transfer on Death Deed Guide
New York enacted a statutory Transfer on Death Deed under N.Y. Real Property Law § 424, effective July 19, 2024: how it works, and how to record and revoke it.
Not sure what you need in New York?
Answer a few questions and we'll tell you which estate planning documents to set up first.
Information current as of 2026-06-18
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.