An online document builder, a downloadable kit and a book offer different ways to approach estate planning. The useful question is which format gives you the guidance you want and a way of working you are comfortable with.

Start with your task. Are you ready to prepare a particular document, looking for forms you can work through yourself, or still learning about your options? Use that answer to narrow your search before comparing individual products.

A guided online document

An online builder takes you through questions and uses your answers to prepare a document. EstateBee describes this question-and-answer process on its online last will and online living trust pages. Its Customer Support page explains saving work and downloading and printing documents.

This format may appeal if you prefer to work through prompts in order. Before starting, read the specific product description and ask about anything you cannot confirm, including the jurisdictions covered, what is included, how long access lasts and whether later updates are included. Do not assume every online product has the same terms.

A downloadable kit

A kit is worth considering if you prefer to read instructions alongside forms and organize the work yourself. Check the individual listing for the exact format and documents supplied. A product called a kit should not be assumed to contain every document you might need.

Compare the legal kits by subject and jurisdiction. For a digital option, confirm the file format, how you receive it and what software you need. If a listing offers several purchase options, check the option selected before buying. Also check what guidance is supplied for completing the forms and what support is available.

A book

A book can suit someone who wants to understand a subject before deciding what to prepare. You can read a chapter, take notes and return to a topic when a question arises.

The EstateBee books cover topics including wills, living trusts, powers of attorney, probate and funeral planning. Check the particular title, edition, format and contents. If you need forms as well as explanations, confirm whether the book includes them and how they are supplied. Do not assume a book purchase includes access to an online builder.

Compare the complete task, not just the price

Write down the same questions for each option:

• What exactly will I receive, and does it address the document or topic I need?
• Does this product cover my jurisdiction and circumstances?
• What information must I gather and what decisions must I make myself?
• What instructions are included for completing and using the documents?
• What support, access and update terms apply to this particular purchase?
• What is the total price for the option I have selected, including any delivery charges?

Keep the answers with the product details you have checked. If two pages appear to give different answers, ask for clarification before relying on either statement.

Choose a format, then check that it fits

You do not have to use one format for every stage. You might read a book first and then choose a builder or kit for a particular document. Equally, a clear product description may help you decide that you need individual advice before choosing any product.

For questions about EstateBee products, use Customer Support. For advice about what your circumstances require or the legal effect of a document, consult a qualified lawyer in the relevant jurisdiction. Once you have downloaded documents, allow time to review them and follow their completion instructions.