Top Legal Documents Every Adult Should Have by Age 30 (or Sooner)

Many people believe Wills and Powers of Attorney only apply later in life. In truth, these documents become important as soon as you begin managing responsibilities like work, property, or family.

By age 30, every adult in Ontario should have basic legal documents in place. Starting early helps you protect yourself and the people you care about.

1. A Will: Planning for the Future

A Will isn’t only about passing on property, it also helps make sure your wishes are followed.

Without a Will:

• Ontario’s estate laws decide who inherits your assets
• You do not get to choose who will manage your affairs
• Family members may face confusion or disputes

Even if your assets are simple, your Will can cover:

• Personal items with sentimental value
• Digital accounts and online profiles
• Guardianship instructions if you have young children

If you are in a common-law relationship or have specific wishes about who should receive what, a Will becomes even more important.

2. Power of Attorney for Property: Protecting Your Financial Affairs

A Continuing Power of Attorney for Property allows someone you trust to manage your finances if you are ever unable to do so.

This document covers:

• Paying bills
• Handling bank accounts
• Selling property if needed
• Managing investments

Without it, your family would need to apply to the Ontario court to act on your behalf. This process can be costly and cause delays, especially in emergencies.

Choosing the right person to act for you is an important part of this decision.

3. Power of Attorney for Personal Care: Planning for Health Decisions

If you cannot make health care decisions yourself, someone will need to step in.

A Power of Attorney for Personal Care allows you to:

• Name a trusted person to make medical choices
• Decide who will be contacted if something happens
• Give clear direction on the type of care you want

Without this document, decisions may be made by health care providers or distant relatives who may not know what you would have preferred.

4. Advance Care Plan: Making Your Wishes Known

An Advance Care Plan is a written document that shares your preferences for health care.

It can include:

• Instructions about life support
• Guidance on pain management
• Notes about where you would like to receive care

These plans help family members make decisions with confidence, especially in stressful situations.

5. Beneficiary Designations: Keeping Accounts Updated

Certain accounts, like life insurance policies, RRSPs, and TFSAs, allow you to name a direct beneficiary.

It is important to:

• Keep these designations up to date
• Review them after key life changes, such as marriage, divorce, or starting a family

These assets pass directly to the named person and are not controlled by your Will. Keeping this information current is a key part of protecting your plan.

Why Planning Now Matters

Putting these documents in place early gives you control and helps your family avoid confusion. Emergencies can happen at any time. It is better to have a plan and not need it than to wait and find out it is too late.

Next Steps

If you are ready to put these documents in place, contact Jeffrey Murray Law to schedule a consultation. We can help you build a solid legal foundation and give you the peace of mind that comes from being prepared.