Creating a Basic Will

Gather personal information including full legal name, social security number, address, and an inventory of assets. Also, consider any guardianship wishes if applicable.

Identify and list all potential beneficiaries with their full names and relationships to you. Decide on what and how much each beneficiary will receive.

Choose a reliable and trustworthy person to serve as the executor of your will. This person will be responsible for administering your estate according to your wishes.

Specify how your assets should be distributed among the listed beneficiaries. Include detailed information for clarity and to prevent potential disputes.

Ensure the will meets all state-specific legal requirements, such as the necessity of witnesses during signing or any particular phrasing required by state law.

Sign the will in the presence of at least two witnesses who are not beneficiaries. The witnesses must also sign, acknowledging that they witnessed your signature.

Store the will in a safe and secure location. Inform your executor where the will is kept and consider providing them a copy for their records.

Regularly review and update your will, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant changes in assets.

Consider consulting a lawyer for advice, particularly if your estate involves complicated family dynamics or significant assets.

Remember that a complete estate plan often includes other documents such as a durable power of attorney and a living will, in addition to the last will and testament.