Vermont Estate Planning
Get your own affairs in order in Vermont, 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 Vermont guide.
- Will
- Vermont will requirements under 14 V.S.A. § 5: a signed writing and two or more credible witnesses who attest before the testator and each other. No notary. Read the guide
- Living trust
- A Vermont revocable living trust under 14A V.S.A.: what creates one, how to fund it with a Vermont deed, and the pour-over will rule that makes a gift lapse. Read the guide
- Power of attorney
- A Vermont power of attorney needs only the principal's signature under 14 V.S.A. § 4005. No witnesses, no notary for validity, and durable unless it says so. Read the guide
- Healthcare directive
- Vermont puts the health care agent, treatment wishes, and disposition of remains in one advance directive under 18 V.S.A. chapter 231. Two witnesses, no notary. Read the guide
Vermont estate planning guides
Vermont Estate Planning Basics
Three Vermont planning documents, three signing rules. A will takes two witnesses, an advance directive two and no notary, a power of attorney neither.
Vermont Will Requirements
Vermont will requirements under 14 V.S.A. § 5: a signed writing and two or more credible witnesses who attest before the testator and each other. No notary.
Vermont Power of Attorney
A Vermont power of attorney needs only the principal's signature under 14 V.S.A. § 4005. No witnesses, no notary for validity, and durable unless it says so.
Vermont Advance Directive
Vermont puts the health care agent, treatment wishes, and disposition of remains in one advance directive under 18 V.S.A. chapter 231. Two witnesses, no notary.
Vermont Guardianship
Vermont proves an adult guardianship by clear and convincing evidence under 14 V.S.A. § 3068(f), appoints no conservators, and grants each power one at a time.
Vermont Revocable Living Trust
A Vermont revocable living trust under 14A V.S.A.: what creates one, how to fund it with a Vermont deed, and the pour-over will rule that makes a gift lapse.
Vermont Trust Administration
Vermont trust administration runs on Title 14A: two 60-day notice clocks, a contest window you can cut to four months, and no court file unless ordered.
Vermont Transfer on Death Deed
Vermont has no transfer on death deed for real estate. It has a codified enhanced life estate deed at 27 V.S.A. chapter 6, and TOD titling for a car.
Not sure what you need in Vermont?
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.