Ohio Estate Planning
Get your own affairs in order in Ohio, for yourself or an aging parent. Compare the documents most adults need (a will, a power of attorney, and a healthcare directive), decide whether you need a trust, and see how to keep your estate out of probate.
Which document do I need?
The core documents at a glance. Each row links to its Ohio guide.
- Will
- Ohio does not require a will to be notarized. ORC 2107 requires two witnesses; a notarized self-proving affidavit is optional and speeds probate. Read the guide
- Living trust
- Ohio revocable living trust guide: how living trusts avoid probate, Ohio Trust Code requirements, costs, funding steps, and if a trust fits your estate. Read the guide
- Power of attorney
- Guide to Ohio powers of attorney under ORC Chapter 1337. Covers durable POAs, agent duties, signing requirements, and incapacity planning. Read the guide
- Healthcare directive
- Guide to Ohio Health Care Power of Attorney and Living Will under ORC 1337.11-17 and 2133. Covers signing, witnesses, and DNRO orders. Read the guide
Planning to prepare the will with an online service? See what Ohio requires from an online will before you sign anything.
Ohio estate planning guides
Ohio Estate Planning Basics: Key Documents and Strategies
Ohio estate planning basics: the five key documents every Ohioan needs, how wills and trusts work, powers of attorney, and TOD deeds.
Ohio Will Requirements: How to Make a Valid Will in Ohio (ORC 2107)
Ohio does not require a will to be notarized. ORC 2107 requires two witnesses; a notarized self-proving affidavit is optional and speeds probate.
Ohio Power of Attorney Guide (ORC Chapter 1337)
Guide to Ohio powers of attorney under ORC Chapter 1337. Covers durable POAs, agent duties, signing requirements, and incapacity planning.
Ohio Healthcare Directive Guide
Guide to Ohio Health Care Power of Attorney and Living Will under ORC 1337.11-17 and 2133. Covers signing, witnesses, and DNRO orders.
Ohio Guardianship Planning Guide (ORC 2111)
Guide to Ohio guardianship under ORC Chapter 2111. Covers minor children, adult guardianship, standby guardianship, and alternatives.
Ohio Revocable Living Trust: Complete Guide to Probate Avoidance
Ohio revocable living trust guide: how living trusts avoid probate, Ohio Trust Code requirements, costs, funding steps, and if a trust fits your estate.
Ohio Successor Trustee Duties After Death: Trust Admin Guide
Ohio successor trustee steps after the grantor's death: the ORC 5808.13 60-day notices, real-estate affidavit (5302.171), trust EIN, taxes, and distributions.
Ohio Transfer on Death Deed: TOD Affidavit Guide (ORC 5302.22)
Ohio has no transfer on death deed. It uses a TOD designation affidavit (ORC 5302.22). How to record one, beneficiary rules, and how to skip probate.
How Pet Trusts Work in Ohio
How an Ohio pet trust works under the Ohio Trust Code: setting aside money for an animal's care, naming a caregiver and trustee, and funding it.
Ohio Digital Assets: Managing Online Accounts
Ohio digital assets estate planning guide: how RUFADAA governs fiduciary access to cryptocurrency, social media, email, and other digital property.
Not sure what you need in Ohio?
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Information current as of 2026-06-18
Settled Estate is not a law firm, and this content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Probate laws and procedures in your state can change. Consult with a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation. Full disclaimer.
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