06/08/2026
One of the biggest reasons people put off creating a will or trust is because they're not sure where to start.
As Ron and I work through updating our own estate plan, I've been researching the different options available. I was surprised to learn that there are more choices than just hiring an attorney or doing nothing at all.
# # # Online DIY Estate Planning Platforms
These platforms guide you through the process and generate your documents based on your answers:
📌 LegalZoom
https://www.legalzoom.com
📌 Trust & Will
https://www.trustandwill.com
📌 Wills & Trusts
https://www.willsandtrusts.com
📌 FreeWill
https://www.freewill.com
# # # Typical Online Cost Ranges
✔️ Basic Will: $100–$300
✔️ Will Package (Will, Power of Attorney, Healthcare Documents): $200–$500
✔️ Trust-Based Estate Plan: $400–$700
✔️ Attorney Review, Legal Questions, or Consultation Add-Ons: Often an additional $200–$500+ depending on the platform and level of attorney involvement
Many online platforms now offer the ability to have an attorney review your documents or answer questions, giving you a middle-ground option between fully DIY and hiring an attorney from the beginning.
# # # Working with an Estate Planning Attorney
For some families, especially those with more complex situations, business ownership, blended families, special needs planning, significant assets, or unique wishes, working directly with an attorney may make the most sense.
# # # Typical Attorney Cost Ranges
✔️ Simple Will: $500–$1,500
✔️ Family Will Package: $1,000–$2,500
✔️ Revocable Living Trust Package: $2,000–$5,000+
One thing I've learned during this process is that there isn't a "right" choice for everyone. The best option depends on your family, assets, goals, and comfort level.
And if you're not sure which route makes sense for your situation, many estate planning attorneys offer a free or low-cost consultation. Spending 30 minutes with an attorney may help you determine whether an online platform is sufficient or whether a customized estate plan would better serve your family.
The most important thing? Having a plan is usually better than continuing to put it off.
Next up: the questions Ron and I wish we had discussed before we sat down to start the process.
⚖️ Disclaimer: I am a notary public, not an attorney. I cannot provide legal advice, recommend legal strategies, determine which estate planning option is best for your situation, prepare legal documents for you, or accept referral fees from attorneys or estate planning companies. I'm simply sharing my personal experience and research as I go through this process with my own family.
