How to Write Your Own Last Will and Testament

Majority of people do not have a will. To many people, writing a will would have to go through a formal and complicated procedures. In actual fact, you can write your own last will and testament.

 

You may have asked, "Is the will valid if I were to write it myself?" The answer is 'yes' if you have followed o proper way of writing it, technically.

 

How to Write Your Own Will and Testament?

 

Here are some ideas of what your last will and testament should include.

  • You should first have your name written on it.

  • State that you are of sound mind and competent to make contracts.

  • State your intention to make this document your last will and testament. And you are revoking all prior wills.

  • State which asset to be distributed to who and by what percentage. If you are giving a particular asset to more than one person, list out all the names and the percentage they are entitled to. Make sure they add up to 100%. You must also name the alternatives should the beneficiaries die before you.
     

  • When you write your will, you may unintentionally left out some assets. So, you need to have a residuary clause. The residuary clause can be written like, "I give everything else in my estate to Allan, Betty and Carl, in equal shares."

  • Appoint an executor to administer your estate upon your demise. He must be at least 18 years old of age. You may want to appoint someone who is honest and trustworthy to carry out the tasks for you.

  • You should also name an alternative executor to take over if the first executor is unable or unwilling to carry out the tasks. It is a good idea to appoint an organization (like will writing company) as an alternative executor.

  • Authorize the executor to pay all your debt, final expenses and related expenses of estate administration.
     

  • Put your signature at the very last of your will, closest to the last line of texts. This is to avoid possibilities to add in any more clauses in your will. Sign your will with the presence of two witnesses, who are not beneficiaries or their spouses.

This article is meant for your reading only and do not intend to replace any professional advice. I STRONGLY RECOMMEND you to get your will drafted by an attorney or a professional will writing company to get a proper outline which could best fit your estate planning needs.

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