Have a will drawn up by an attorney. Leave one copy with him or her and one with a trusted friend or family member (e.g., the principal beneficiary, your spouse, your child, etc.)

One thing you should not do is put your will in a bank vault or safe deposit box. Keep your will and other important papers in another safe place. Safe deposit boxes are often sealed for a period of time at the owner's death.

Make sure your insurance coverage is up to date. Major changes in life circumstances such as marriage, the birth or adoption of a child, divorce, or retirement can change your insurance needs.