Artificial intelligence has made it easier than ever for individuals to begin estate planning. With just a few prompts, AI tools can generate templates, offer suggestions and help users get a general sense of what an estate plan might include.
For those just beginning to think about wills, trusts and end-of-life decisions, AI can be a convenient way to finally get started. But while these tools are helpful when it comes to brainstorming, they should never replace the final steps and formalization handled by an experienced estate planning attorney.
What AI can – and cannot – do
AI can assist with organizing information, such as listing assets, identifying potential beneficiaries and explaining the general purpose of different estate planning documents. This can be especially useful for people who feel overwhelmed by the idea of making such detailed plans. It also helps users clarify their priorities and think about important questions, like who should manage their affairs if they become incapacitated or how to provide for children or dependents.
However, once these initial ideas are in place, a skilled legal professional should be consulted to edit and wrap up the process correctly. Estate planning involves complex legal and tax considerations that vary widely by state. A generic AI-generated will or trust may not comply with local laws or account for the specifics of your financial situation. Mistakes in execution—such as missing signatures or improperly titled assets—can make even a well-intentioned plan unenforceable.
AI also cannot account for family dynamics, long-term care planning or strategies to reduce estate taxes. Nor can it offer personalized guidance for blended families, special needs beneficiaries or individuals with unique goals like charitable giving or business succession. These nuances almost always require a professional’s judgment and experience.
In short, AI can be useful for exploring your options and getting organized. It may help you enter your attorney’s office better prepared and more informed. But estate planning is not a one-size-fits-all task. A cookie-cutter approach can lead to costly errors that can affect you and/or your loved ones down the line.