Accidents happen: Get your affairs in order

in your medical file.

There are a few additional considerations for any of these documents:

* Sign, date and notarize them and file for safekeeping.
* Compare will or trust beneficiaries to those named in your insurance or retirement plans to eliminate conflicts.
* Before naming an executor or power of attorney, make sure they are up to the task.
* Name alternate beneficiaries and executors in case anyone dies before you.

Do-it-yourself kits like Quicken WillMaker Plus are available, although you should probably have an attorney who specializes in estate law review your documents. And if trusts, complex estates or large assets are involved, definitely hire a professional – one typo or skipped signature could end up costing far more than the lawyers fee.