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Checklist: 10 Steps To Create A Simple Will

Creating a will is a crucial step in ensuring your assets are protected and your wishes are honored. Every state has specific legal requirements, so it is important to adhere to local regulations. The following steps will help you build a strong and legally valid will.

Create Your Will

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Prepare Your Estate Information

Before drafting your will, take inventory of what you own and consider who should inherit it.

Before drafting your will, take inventory of what you own and what you owe. A clear list of your assets and liabilities will help ensure your estate is distributed efficiently and prevent confusion for your executor and beneficiaries.

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Choose Key People For Your Will

Your will should designate individuals who will handle responsibilities after your passing.

Your beneficiaries are the individuals, charities, or organizations that will inherit your assets. Clearly naming them in your will ensures your estate is distributed according to your wishes and helps prevent disputes.

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Your executor is responsible for carrying out the terms of your will, managing your estate, and ensuring your wishes are honored. Choosing a reliable and trustworthy executor is essential to avoiding delays, disputes, and mismanagement.

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If you have minor children, naming a legal guardian ensures they will be cared for by someone you trust if you pass away before they reach adulthood. Without a designated guardian, the court will decide who takes custody, which may not align with your wishes.

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Define Your Specific Wishes

Detail how your estate should be distributed.

In addition to naming general beneficiaries, you may want to leave specific items, financial gifts, or sentimental belongings to certain individuals or organizations. Clearly outlining these bequests in your will helps ensure your wishes are honored and reduces potential disputes.

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Draft How Your Estate Should Be Distributed

To be legally valid, your will must comply with state-specific regulations.

Each state has specific laws regarding how a will must be signed and witnessed to be legally valid. Research the signature, witness, and notary requirements in your state to ensure your will meets all legal standards. Failing to follow these rules could result in your will being challenged or deemed invalid.

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While a simple will can often be created using templates or online services, certain situations may require the guidance of an attorney or financial professional.

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Once you have outlined your key decisions, it is time to put them into a legally binding document. A well-drafted will ensures your wishes are clear and reduces the risk of disputes or legal challenges.

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A will is only useful if it can be easily located when needed. Keeping it in a secure yet accessible place ensures your executor and loved ones can carry out your wishes without unnecessary delays.

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Creating a will is only effective if the right people know it exists and can access it when needed. Inform your executor, trusted family members, or attorney about the location of your will and any important instructions. While you do not need to share all the details, ensuring they know how to find it will prevent confusion and delays.

Revisit To Update Your Will

A will is only useful if it can be accessed when needed.

Periodically review and update your will to reflect changes in your assets, relationships, or state laws. We suggest April 16th as an annual review.

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Leave Your Heirs The Gift Of Organization With a CLEAR Kit

Did you know?

The average estate takes 570 hours to administer.

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