1. You need money, as much as possible and as liquid as possible.
2. If you don't have money, you need connections.
3. On top of the first two, you need medical insurance and life insurance. Also you need to have a well-written will. Of course, in US, trust is almost of must, especially for people over 40 and having spouse and children. You don't want half of your money going to Uncle Sam while you pass away.

Period.