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What Should I Include in My Will?

Thu May 15 2025

Creating a will is a fundamental step in estate planning, ensuring your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Knowing what to include in your will is essential for a comprehensive and effective estate plan.

Key Elements to Include in Your Will:

  1. Personal Information:
    • Identification: Clearly state your full name, address, and other identifying details.
    • Revocation Clause: Include a clause revoking any previous wills or codicils.
  2. Executor Appointment:
    • Executor Selection: Name an executor to manage your estate, pay debts, and distribute assets.
    • Alternate Executor: Appoint an alternate in case the primary executor is unable or unwilling to serve.
  3. Beneficiary Designations:
    • Asset Distribution: Specify who will inherit your assets, including specific bequests and residuary estate.
    • Contingent Beneficiaries: Name alternate beneficiaries if the primary beneficiaries predecease you.
  4. Guardianship for Minor Children:
    • Guardian Appointment: Appoint guardians for any minor children to ensure their care and upbringing.
    • Alternate Guardians: Name alternates in case the primary guardians cannot serve.
  5. Specific Bequests:
    • Detailed Gifts: List specific items or amounts of money to be given to particular individuals or organizations.
  6. Residuary Clause:
    • Remaining Assets: Outline how the remaining assets should be distributed after specific bequests are fulfilled.
  7. Trust Provisions:
    • Testamentary Trusts: Establish trusts for minor children or other beneficiaries if necessary.
  8. Funeral and Burial Instructions:
    • Final Wishes: Include any specific wishes regarding your funeral, burial, or cremation.
  9. Signatures and Witnesses:
    • Legal Formalities: Follow your state’s legal requirements for signing and witnessing the will to ensure its validity.

Including these key elements in your will ensures a comprehensive and effective estate plan. Contact us today to help draft a will that meets your needs and protects your legacy.