If you’re not particularly interested in writing your will, it’s easy to procrastinate and tell yourself that you’ll do it another day. But writing a legal will can save you and your family from a lot of legal and emotional troubles in the future. While you might think that writing a will is a complicated legal process, it’s actually not as hard as you might think. This quick guide will show you how to write a will without breaking a sweat.
Determine What You Want to Pass On and to Whom
The first step in creating a will is thinking about what you want to happen to your assets and belongings when you pass on. Consider all your assets from your house, bank accounts, cars, and personal belongings. Decide on who you want to inherit and divide your assets among them. Consider creating a list of all your assets and the people you want to inherit them.
Decide How You Want to Pass on Your Assets
After creating a list of all your assets, it’s important to decide in which manner you want to pass on your assets. There are two main ways of passing on assets, outright and through a trust. Outright distribution is the simplest way of passing on assets; it involves simply naming the person as the beneficiary to the property. Setting up a trust is more complicated, but it offers you more control in how the assets are passed on.
Designate an Executor
An executor is in charge of carrying out your wishes after your death. They manage your assets and ensure that they are distributed to your beneficiaries. They also pay your bills and taxes from your estate. It’s important to select someone who you trust, and who is honest and capable of carrying out your wishes.
Choose a Guardian
If you have children who are under 18 years of age and a surviving parent is not available, it’s important to designate a guardian. Guardians are responsible for taking care of your children until they are adults. It’s also important to name an alternate choice for the guardian in case the first choice is not willing or able to take on the responsibility.
Write Your Will
Once you have completed all the steps above, it’s time to write your will. While there is no need to hire a lawyer to write your will, it is important to follow the specific rules and regulations in your state or country. Writing a will that is not compliant with the rules could lead to it being ruled invalid. You should also make sure that you have dated and signed your will in front of two witnesses who are not beneficiaries.
Hire a Will Attorney
If you are feeling out of depth with writing up your will, a qualified attorney can guide you through the intricacies of will creation to ensure that your final wishes are accurately reflected. An attorney will work closely with you to identify and address any concerns or potential issues that may arise. From ensuring proper language is used to providing advice on asset allocation, an attorney can provide invaluable support as you navigate this important legal process. By working with a will attorney, you can feel confident that your will is properly executed and your legacy is preserved for future generations.
Creating a will may not seem like something you need to do, but it is important for the peace of mind of your loved ones and ensuring that your wishes are carried out. Following the above guide will help you write a simple legal document that will ensure the proper distribution of your assets and property. Remember that laws regarding wills can differ from state to state or country to country, it’s important to make sure that you follow the requirements and regulations set by your government for the will to be considered legally binding. Remember, if you need help, reach out to a will attorney. Don’t procrastinate and start working on your will today.
