Start Here: Estate Planning Made Simple
Estate Planning Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Estate planning often feels overwhelming because the information is scattered, overly technical, or tied to a sales pitch. It shouldn’t be that way.
The American Estate Planning Series was created to provide clear, trustworthy education—without pressure—so you can understand your options, ask better questions, and decide what makes sense for your situation.
This site is designed to help you learn first, then take the next step only when you’re ready.
“Practical, easy to follow, and written in plain English — without legal jargon.”
— Financial Advisor in Dallas
“Paul explains complex estate planning in simple, easy-to-understand language.”
— Reader & YouTube Subscriber
“Bought the Texas book — very helpful. I printed the documents I needed.”
— Reader of Estate Planning in Texas
Clear education first. State-specific guidance next.
Watch This First (3 Minutes)
This short video explains how this site works and how to get the most out of it.
Most People Start Here
Start with these short videos to understand the most important estate planning decisions and avoid common mistakes.
START HERE: Trust vs Will — How to Decide What You Actually Need
The most important decision in estate planning. Learn when a will works, when a trust is better, and why many families use both.
Estate Planning Checklist: What to Do First (Step-by-Step)
A simple, step-by-step checklist to help you get started with estate planning and move from uncertainty to clarity.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
If you die without an estate plan, state law decides who inherits your property and who manages your estate.
Choose Your State
Estate planning laws vary by state. Explore guides, videos, and resources specific to where you live.
Want to go deeper?
If you’d like to explore more estate planning topics, including wills vs. trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and common mistakes, visit our full video library.
How the American Estate Planning Series Works
1️⃣ Learn the Basics
Short national videos explaining wills, trusts, probate, and key planning decisions.
2️⃣ Choose Your State
Choose your state to see state-specific videos, checklists, and estate planning resources.
3️⃣ Take the Next Step
Explore trusted, state-specific resources and local guidance when you’re ready.
Why State-Specific Estate Planning Matters
The basics of estate planning are similar everywhere—but the details depend on where you live.
Key rules that affect your plan are set by state law, including:
How probate works
How property is owned and transferred
Which planning tools are available
That’s why the next step is understanding how estate planning works in your state.
Next: Explore Your State’s Estate Planning Resources
Once you understand the basics, the most important step is to look at how estate planning works in your state.
State resource pages include education tailored to local law, along with state-specific guides and materials.
Common Questions
Q1 — Is this legal advice?
A: No. The American Estate Planning Series™ is educational. Estate planning laws vary by state, so when you’re ready to create or update a plan, you should work with an attorney licensed where you live.
Q2 — Do I still need an attorney?
A: In most cases, yes. This Series is designed to help you understand the issues and options so your conversations with an attorney are clearer, easier, and more productive.
Q3 — What if I already have a will or trust?
A: That’s common. These resources can help you confirm whether your plan still reflects your wishes and whether there may be areas worth reviewing or updating.
Q4 — Do you sell legal forms or services?
A: Our mission is education first. In some states, we also provide resources — including books and state-specific forms — to help you take the next step confidently.
Ready to Continue?
The next step is understanding how these rules apply where you live.
No sales pressure. Clear education. State-specific when it matters.